A recent video of Yareli Jessica Gijon, a teacher from California, experiencing a seizure during class has garnered over 13 million views online. The footage has sparked significant discussions around epilepsy and the challenges faced by those living with the condition.
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Yareli-Jessica-Gijon-students-051526-4-db8c59319ec24e829fb58f3209a9e11a.jpg)
Gijon first encountered seizures at the tender age of 12, culminating in a diagnosis of epilepsy after years of uncertainty. The aftermath of her initial seizures involved numerous hospital visits and consultations with neurologists, which ultimately led to a diagnosis that significantly impacted her life.
Describing her initial experiences, Gijon shared, “One of the most challenging aspects of this journey was the uncertainty surrounding the cause of my seizures.” Following a series of unsuccessful treatments, she found a medication that significantly improved her condition at 18 years old, allowing her to regain a sense of normalcy in her life. However, her road to understanding her epilepsy was filled with complexities, resulting in a diagnosis that evolved into focal epilepsy.
When Gijon began teaching in 2017, she had already developed a keen awareness of her triggers, which proved valuable when she experienced symptoms in front of her students. On that fateful day, she felt a rush of anxiety and recognised the onset of a seizure. Fortunately, her co-teacher provided immediate support while she moved to a more private area, highlighting the importance of a supportive work environment.
“This support made a tremendous difference in that moment,” Gijon recounted. By being transparent about her condition with co-workers, she fostered a sense of safety for herself and mitigated feelings of isolation. Her approach focused on creating a classroom environment built on empathy and understanding.
Years of teaching experiences have reinforced the significance of prioritising her health alongside her responsibilities. Gijon regularly monitors her stress and engages in open dialogue with her students about her condition. She believes that sharing her struggles, appropriately adapted for her students’ ages, cultivates a classroom atmosphere where seeking support is seen as a strength.
Additionally, Gijon expressed, “This transparency fosters empathy and trust.” The positive responses she received from her students following her seizure demonstrated the impact of vulnerability in education, reminding her of the kindness inherent in young people.
Despite the challenges presented by epilepsy, Gijon insists it has never hindered her ability to connect with her students. Rather, she views her experiences as an asset that enhances her teaching. Reflecting on her journey, she stated, “Teaching has become one of the most fulfilling aspects of my life.”
After years of uncertainty about her potential career as a teacher, Gijon now considers her profession to be a pivotal part of her life’s narrative. “I do this for my younger self — the version of me who questioned whether she would ever regain independence,” she said.
Recently, Gijon shared her experiences on social media, posting the viral video that showcased her seizure in class. Initially hesitant to share such an intimate moment, she ultimately decided to reveal it, believing it could serve as a source of empowerment for others facing similar struggles.
Though the video received mixed reactions, with some unfavourable comments, Gijon found overwhelming support from many—friends, family, and even strangers. This outpouring of compassion reassured her that, despite some negative attitudes, a sense of community and understanding resided within the wider public.
Gijon’s story resonates with many, particularly in regard to mental health and living with chronic conditions. She passionately stated, “Ultimately, I’m sharing my story for those who need to hear it — for those who feel alone, for those doubting themselves, and for those who need hope.” Through her journey, she continues to inspire and advocate for awareness around epilepsy and the importance of empathy in education.