Meet Kim N. Hardy
Epilepsy Survivor, Advocate, & Writer
Hello my name is Kim Hardy I am the Founder/CEO of HardyHandz Foundation. Handz Foundation is a 501c3 organization based out of South Carolina that was formed because there were no organizations in SC that focused on supporting those of us living with epilepsy. The mission of HardyHandz Foundation is to Educate, Advocate, and Support those surviving epilepsy. This year my focus is on the support aspect of HardyHandz Foundation through other epilepsy organizations on FaceBook and Instagram. Through these outlets I have been able to reach people all over SC, NC, and GA through my monthly Live Chats and daily post.
I have also expanded my outreach to children by self publishing my first children’s book, The Adventures of Wallee and Kimmie “Wallee to the Rescue.” It is a story based on my experience with epilepsy and how my dog, Wallee, supported me while I was having seizures. I wanted kids to see how important it is to be there for your friends even if you really understand what they are going through. I also wanted to show kids and adults support can come in many forms in this case it was a girl and her dog. Friendship, love, and support can be a huge support to someone who is living with epilepsy.
Support is especially important more so now than ever for many as we are all dealing with COVID 19. Being in the house many of us have to find ways not to let our anxiety get the best of us so finding a support system in your friends will be key for many of us living with epilepsy. Many of us are having to do things virtually so you can still enjoy a girls or guys night out. These things help us still have that face to face time with someone familiar outside of your house. We have to do creative things to keep your brain simulated so that the stress of the world doesn’t trigger a seizure.
I’m a person who likes to be active so this has been a big adjustment for me. However, I do like my “me time” so this has been an opportunity to be more consistent with self-care. I have been getting a lot of much needed rest and doing things I haven’t had time to do like: catching up on books that I’ve wanted to read and talking to God more. We have to remember how important it is to set daily self-care time. I promise you it really helps with seizure control. I'm a true testament to that, I am 15 months seizure free! I know I couldn’t have gotten through my experiences with epilepsy without my strong faith in God and my rock solid support system that makes sure I know they are there for me. For those that may not have that support system that’s ok I can definitely be that for you. Your village doesn't have to be large but you do have someone in your corner that is loving and cheering you on!
I don’t want anyone ever feeling alone through this fight which is why God gave me this mission. A mission I don’t take lightly.
"The Adventures of Wallee and Kimmie"
Hardy Handz Foundation
Email: hardyhandz@gmail.com
Website: www.hardyhandz.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/hardyhandz/
Twitter: @hardyhandz