One Woman’s Journey to Overcoming Epilepsy

We are pleased to announce that we have opened 2020 UCB Family Epilepsy Scholarships this November for Epilepsy Awareness Month. Since 2005, UCB has awarded $2.4 million in scholarships to people living with epilepsy, family members and caregivers. In 2020, UCB will offer 30 scholarships of up to $5,000 and three scholarships of up to $10,000. This month we are highlighting one of our 2019 winners. Read more to learn about Victoria Gonzalez and her journey with epilepsy.

“Epilepsy has been a disease that has taught me many things…perseverance and that every moment we are alive is a gift from God. It has changed me and those around me in many ways.” – Victoria Gonzalez

In 2006, Victoria Gonzalez of Jackson Heights, New York received the devastating news that she had a brain tumor and was diagnosed with cancer. As a single mother of two boys, one with autism and one with ADHD, she feared for how this diagnosis would impact her family and their future. 
      

Gonzalez immediately underwent treatment enduring four brain surgeries, two rounds of chemo, and radiation. After a right temporal lobectomy, she began having seizures - sometimes up to 10 a day. Gonzalez’ battle with cancer, and now epilepsy, caused her to give up many things including her role as a neonatal nurse.

Despite all that Gonzalez has faced physically and emotionally, she feels encouraged by the 
fact that she can continue to care for her boys remaining present in their lives. As an active member of her church, Gonzalez receives comfort and support from her spiritual community. When she is not with her church family or her boys, Gonzalez is working on getting her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing at Grand Canyon University in pursuit of becoming a nurse educator. 

UCB is proud to recognize Victoria Gonzalez for being a 2019 Epilepsy Scholarship recipient, receiving the Joe D’Souza Memorial Scholarship. The Joe D’Souza Memorial Scholarship was created in memory of UCB’s former global medical director and will be awarded annually to an applicant exemplifying qualities Dr. D’Souza was known for, including a persevering spirit and active engagement and a desire to make an impact in the community.

Apply for the 2020 UCB Family Epilepsy Scholarship: https://www.ucbepilepsyscholarship.com/