The Blind Spot

A quick update from Rhys concerning the podcast hiatus and its return. THE BLIND SPOT Website: www.theblindspot.org Email: [email protected] Twitter: https://twitter.com/theblindspotorg Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theblindspotorg

In the second of a two-part series, Rhys talks to Janet and her husband Steve about living with epilepsy - and the resultant effects the medication has had on their children, including FACS (Fetal Anti-Convulsant Syndrome). From changes in understanding of epilepsy since the 80s, and the health consequences of the medication, through to family life, autism, the internet and online support networks of the present, this wide-ranging discussion gives a personal insight into one family who have been affected in a multitude of ways by epilepsy. For more information on epilepsy: https://www.epilepsy.org.uk/press/facts Janet's Blog: https://janet4kidz.wordpress.com/2013/03/04/invisible-disabilities/ Janet's ASC (Autism Spectrum Disorder) Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/767667233285385/ OACS Website: http://www.oacscharity.org/ My Epilepsy Team: http://www.myepilepsyteam.com/ THE BLIND SPOT Website: www.blind-spot.net Email: [email protected] Twitter: https://twitter.com/blindspotnet Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blindspotnet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blindspotnet

In the first of a two-part series, Rhys sits down with regular The Blind Spot contributor Yasmin and her mother, Kate, to talk about epilepsy. In a personal look into the condition, mother and daughter talk candidly about their own experiences. From recalling Yasmin’s first seizure 11 years ago and her eventual diagnosis, to the effects of the medication and constant support of friends and family over the years, Yasmin and Kate vividly describe what it is like living with epilepsy. For more information on epilepsy: https://www.epilepsy.org.uk/press/facts Yasmin's 'Epilepsy and Me' article: https://blind-spot.net/2015/12/13/epilepsy-and-me/ THE BLIND SPOT Website: www.blind-spot.net Email: [email protected] Twitter: https://twitter.com/blindspotnet Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blindspotnet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blindspotnet

In the third episode of the podcast we look at the refugee crises. The bulk of the episode is taken up by a 54-minute conversation between The Blind Spot co-founder Hatty and Harriet Paintin, who has volunteered in Lesbos and Istanbul, working with refugees. She gives an essential insight into what it’s like on Lesbos for the refugees, as well as describing the awful press behaviour, the smugglers, and the broader political situation. Additionally Rhys reads his article, Don’t Stand By, which urges Britain and Europe to do far more for refugees, particularly vulnerable children. There’s also an update on the topic of Episode 1, the junior doctors’ strike. Rhys' 'Don't Stand By' article: https://blind-spot.net/2016/01/31/dont-stand-by/ For the video of this interview: https://blind-spot.net/2016/02/08/interview-harriet-paintin-on-volunteering-in-lesbos/ THE BLIND SPOT Website: www.blind-spot.net Email: [email protected] Twitter: https://twitter.com/blindspotnet Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blindspotnet Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blindspotnet