Put your oxygen mask on first: Meet @keeg1010

TERESA: What brought you to Mayo Clinic Connect?

@keeg1010: My son, Keegan, had his first seizure in September of 2020. He was 22 at the time. After a trip to the hospital and with really no information as to why, I got home that day and started researching seizures, causes, triggers, treatments, and pretty much anything I could find. During that time, I came across Mayo Clinic Connect. I joined and posted for the first time, searching for answers and help. Within the same day, several people responded, and I realized I had joined a community that would be extremely beneficial as we navigated this new challenge.

TERESA: What motivates you to take part in Mayo Clinic Connect?

@keeg1010: Being able to share experiences and brainstorm with other members in the online community is a huge blessing. I know how overwhelmed I was after Keegan had his first seizure. Knowing that I am not alone, and that there’s a whole community dealing with similar circumstances who are willing to open up and share their experiences, is truly empowering. I really enjoy reaching out to others who are struggling. Even if I am not in the exact same situation, I try to be a positive influence and source of encouragement.

TERESA: What about Mayo Clinic Connect makes you feel comfortable to share and to be open with the community?

@keeg1010: I guess I should provide some background information. Keegan was born prematurely at 28 weeks. He was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at age two. He began to regress in developmental milestones and was eventually diagnosed with autism at age three. It wasn’t until adulthood that he was diagnosed with epilepsy (mesial temporal sclerosis). Having a son with special needs changed my life and my career path. I began working with the special needs community. My experience with Keegan helped me be open, offer advice, answer questions, and help families navigate the system to ensure their child receives the best care and therapies possible.

I have always been passionate about helping others. Sharing the experiences and obstacles we have faced helps me connect with families in similar situations who are overwhelmed and struggling.

With Mayo Clinic Connect, I am grateful for the opportunity to help someone who is in need. Whether it’s talking about Keegan, discussing medications, reaching out to someone dealing with gastrointestinal issues, talking about advocating for oneself, or connecting with someone in hospice, I can relate because I’ve been through all those situations in my life. I believe, through all the trials and tribulations, the lessons I’ve learned are invaluable and truly a blessing from God.

TERESA: What support groups do you participate in?

@keeg1010: On Mayo Clinic Connect, I am a part of several support groups, mostly Autism (ASD), Digestive Health, and Epilepsy & Seizures. 

Over the years, I have been in many autism groups. I also follow Raising Special Kids. 

TERESA: Tell us about a meaningful moment you've experienced on Mayo Clinic Connect. 

@keeg1010: Wow, this is a tough one. The number of times I’ve learned something, connected with someone, or felt like I was a friend on the other side of the screen is immeasurable. When I first joined, @santosha and @jakedduck1 were tremendous supporters. They helped me navigate this new world I was lost in. They were always there, offering advice and answering questions. I am still blessed by their knowledge and kindness. 

A moment I’ll never forget was when Chris (@santosha) and I were talking. We have become friends since meeting on Mayo Clinic Connect. It was during a very difficult and stressful time. Chris said, “Imagine you’re on a plane and the situation is not good. Remember to always put your oxygen mask on before helping others. You’re no good to others if you aren’t taking care of yourself.” That’s become my motto…put my oxygen mask on first. Those words gave me the space to recharge. Learn my limits. It made me realize I’m not being selfish when I need a break.

TERESA: What surprised you the most about Mayo Clinic Connect?

@keeg1010: The number of people who are willing to take the time and reach out to another person who is struggling. It feels like a family, all with unique struggles, all working towards helping each other.

TERESA: What energizes you, or how do you find balance in your life?

@keeg1010: Appreciating the little things in life. A bubble bath. A beautiful day. A great meal. My favorite song. Playing with my dogs. A trip to the cabin with my husband. A walk in the woods.  Spending time with my three boys. Seeing my dad and sister every week. Talking to my sister daily. The smell of a rainstorm. A beautiful rainbow. Making a new friend. Paying it forward. A kindness from a stranger. An unexpected compliment. All the little things we take for granted.

TERESA: Tell us about your favorite pastime or activity.

@keeg1010: Cooking with my husband or going out to eat at our favorite restaurant. Cooking a meal for the family. Making each other laugh every day. Spending quality time together.

TERESA: Do you have a favorite quote, life motto, or personal mantra? 

@keeg1010: “Put your oxygen mask on first.”

TERESA: What food can you not resist?

@keeg1010: Italian food. I can’t pass up a good pasta meal or a great slice of pizza!

TERESA: Puppies or kittens? 

@keeg1010: Puppies. A thousand percent! We have had dogs all our lives, and we always have at least two in the house.

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