Tammy and Rafael have been married for 15 years and live with their two children in the distant suburbs of Silicon Valley. Tammy was a school teacher and about to return from maternity leave after Sam’s birth when Wanda had a serious seizure. She stays home and cares for the two children. Rafael is currently unemployed.
Wanda has severe epilepsy and cerebral palsy. Different medications have been used to keep the seizures under control but they have not worked. The family found that a ketogenic (high-fat) diet keeps seizures at a minimum (3-4 per day). Wanda cannot communicate, has nearly total paralysis in both arms and legs, and lost her ability to chew and swallow at age five. She is fed through a gastronomy tube.
Sam also requires a lot of care. He needs help with basic activities, including dressing himself and eating. Sam requires various vitamins and supplements (some delivered via syringe).
The possibility of something happening to Wanda or Sam is a constant worry for Tammy and Rafael. They are also concerned about what things will be like as the two children become older.
Tammy and Rafael have been married for 15 years and live with their two children in the distant suburbs of Silicon Valley. Tammy was a school teacher and about to return from maternity leave after Sam’s birth when Wanda had a serious seizure. She stays home and cares for the two children. Rafael is currently unemployed.
Wanda has severe epilepsy and cerebral palsy. Different medications have been used to keep the seizures under control but they have not worked. The family found that a ketogenic (high-fat) diet keeps seizures at a minimum (3-4 per day). Wanda cannot communicate, has nearly total paralysis in both arms and legs, and lost her ability to chew and swallow at age five. She is fed through a gastronomy tube.
Sam also requires a lot of care. He needs help with basic activities, including dressing himself and eating. Sam requires various vitamins and supplements (some delivered via syringe).
The possibility of something happening to Wanda or Sam is a constant worry for Tammy and Rafael. They are also concerned about what things will be like as the two children become older.