Deep brain stimulation for epilepsy gives patient hope

Katie Beaver, 31, has battled epilepsy since age 10.  This year she was implanted with a new type of device that has dramatically decreased the number of seizures she experiences. The device sends electrical pulses to certain parts of the brain to control abnormal activity.

“The reason that people came up with this device is to reduce the burden on the patient and the doctor in terms of trying to remember what times of day are good or bad for you because the device itself can take snapshots of brain activity at certain points of time,” said Dr. Andrew Ko, the UW Medicine neurosurgeon who implanted the device. 

Katie looks forward to the day she experiences no seizures, and is appreciative of enjoying life more fully this holiday season.