Diary of An Epileptic

In this episode of PodcastDX, we speak with Allany Muniz, founder of Diary of an Epileptic, about the realities of living with epilepsy beyond what most people see. Allany shares how her diagnosis changed her life and led her to create a platform built on honest storytelling, awareness, and connection. Together, we explore the many ways epilepsy can affect memory, confidence, relationships, mental health, daily routines, and a person's sense of identity—not only seizures.

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This thoughtful conversation also addresses misinformation and stigma, the value of tracking symptoms and triggers, and the importance of informed, compassionate support from family, friends, and healthcare providers. Allany offers an encouraging message for people who are newly diagnosed: life may look different, but it can still be full, meaningful, and connected.

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For more information and support: Visit the CDC's epilepsy resources, the Epilepsy Foundation's seizure-first-aid materials, and the National Association of Epilepsy Centers' patient resources. You can also follow our guest, Allany Muniz, and Diary of an Epileptic on Instagram and TikTok at @DiaryofanEpileptic, and on YouTube at Diary of an Epileptic.

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​Bio: Hey, my name is Allany Muniz, a woman who happens to have epilepsy. In my 14 going on 15 years of having epilepsy, I have experienced PTSD, healing, mental health issues, paranoia, finding my confidence/voice, and isolation.

I got diagnosed in August of 2011. That particular day was typical, except for feeling excited to start my freshman year. I was ready to get rid of the nightmares I endured in middle school and saw high school as my fresh start. Honestly, I can't even tell you what he said; all I heard was seizures and epilepsy. A few days later, I had a seizure, which confirmed my epilepsy diagnosis. Of course, in my life, I've been the center of embarrassment and humiliation, so when I had 3 seizures at school, I became known as the "seizure girl."

Throughout the years, I received opportunities to speak about my story and spread awareness.

The idea of Diary of an Epileptic started in 2019 when I would have these creative... self-talk moments (now known as vivid visions/dreams). In November 2020, I fractured my ankle and thought, " Might as well, since I had nothing else to do. It was weird at first because I forgot I was still loopy from the anesthesia, but it felt... right like I was on the right path.