Shanna Jenkins on Raising a Child With Epilepsy & Finding Strength as a Mom

When Shanna Jenkins buckled her toddler into the car for a normal morning in 2011, everything changed in seconds. A sudden seizure, an emergency ambulance, and a diagnosis of epilepsy reshaped her world overnight. In this moving and deeply human episode of Moms Like Me, Shanna opens up about the early fear, the sleepless nights, the medical maze, and the constant question every parent asks: Will my child be okay? But this isn’t a story of fear, it’s a story of resilience. Today, her son Malachi is a thriving 17-year-old: marching band member, soccer player, self-taught PC builder, world traveler, and budding adult ready to take on the world. Shanna walks us through the journey from helplessness to empowerment, and how honesty, community, and faith helped her release control and raise an independent, confident young man. You’ll hear: - What those first terrifying moments felt like and how the diagnosis unfolded - How Shanna learned to balance safety with giving her son independence - The emotional weight of raising a child whose health requires constant vigilance - Why teaching kids about their diagnosis is essential for long-term confidence - How she’s preparing her graduating senior for life beyond home - Her powerful message of hope for any parent walking a similar road This episode is equal parts heart, wisdom, and inspiration: a tribute to strong kids and even stronger moms.