From Fear to Freedom: One Patient’s Journey to Seizure-Free Living

January 14, 2025

For one MSU Health Care and University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Neuro Care Network patient, life used to feel unpredictable and isolating. Struggling with epilepsy, Megan Longoria faced the overwhelming uncertainty of when the next seizure might strike—sometimes going a month without one, other times experiencing multiple seizures in a single day. The emotional toll of living in fear and self-doubt weighed heavily, affecting every aspect of her life. 

“I felt like a burden to my family and friends,” Megan recalled. “I stopped leaving my house because I was scared of having a seizure and hurting myself or someone else. It was exhausting. I felt depressed and different from everyone else.” 

Before finding MSU Health Care and University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Neuro Care Network, Megan had seen three or four different neurologists. Unfortunately, those attempts at treatment came with challenges: some doctors prescribed overly aggressive medications that left her sleeping most of the day, while others couldn’t find the right combination of treatments to provide meaningful relief. “I felt stuck,” she said. “No one seemed to get it.” 

“I felt stuck. No one seemed to get it."

Then came a turning point: the decision to seek care with Tyson Burghardt, MD at MSU Health Care and University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Neuro Care Network. From the first appointment, Megan felt a sense of relief and comfort that had been missing from previous experiences. 

“The moment I started seeing Dr. Burghardt, I knew I was in good hands. He wanted to get to the root of the issue with proper testing,” she explained. “His staff was always polite and friendly, and I felt like I could talk with them about anything—not just my health.” 

“The moment I started seeing Dr. Burghardt, I knew I was in good hands."

This new sense of trust and understanding marked the beginning of a transformative journey. With a personalized treatment plan and ongoing support, Megan found herself not only managing her epilepsy but thriving in ways she had never imagined. 

“I’ve been seizure-free for over three years now. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful home, a job, and most importantly, I no longer feel like a burden to my family and friends.” 

Today, life looks completely different for Megan. No longer held back by fear, she has embraced new adventures—things that once seemed impossible. 

“My friends and I go camping, I love being outdoors, and my husband and I travel together. That’s something I never would have done before.” 

For Megan, the care and compassion provided by MSU Health Care and University of Michigan Health-Sparrow Neuro Care Network didn’t just treat her condition—it gave her a new lease on life. Now, she looks forward to every new day, grateful for the freedom to live without fear. 

Megan's story is featured in MSU Health Care's Our Mission Starts with You Campaign. Watch the video now.