After 5 brushes with death, I finally know what I have to live for
Ken Pilon, a resident of Regina, has had numerous encounters with death throughout his life. From surviving dehydration as an infant to battling cancer at 45, his experiences have been nothing short of harrowing. However, it was the discovery of his undiagnosed seizures that truly reshaped his perspective on life.
At the age of 51, Ken experienced a grand mal epileptic seizure while on a trip, unaware that he had been having multiple seizures daily for most of his life. The severity of the seizure landed him in the emergency room, where he learned the extent of the damage these seizures had caused to his brain.
After struggling with grand mal seizures for 11 years, Ken underwent brain surgery to remove a portion of his brain the size of a golf ball. While the surgery successfully eliminated his seizures, it also brought about unexpected changes in his life. Ken, once a top life insurance agent, was forced to retire early and found himself grappling with memory issues, emotional sensitivity, and social challenges.
The impact of the surgery took a toll on Ken’s mental health, leading him to a dark place where he attempted to end his life. With the support of his spouse and professional help, Ken was able to navigate through his struggles and learn to appreciate the positive aspects of his life.
Through therapy and self-reflection, Ken discovered that while the surgery may have taken away some of his cognitive abilities, it did not diminish his value as a person. He found solace in his family and friends, realizing that he still had much to offer in terms of love and companionship.
Despite the challenges he faced, Ken emerged from his ordeal with a newfound sense of gratitude and resilience. He acknowledges the difficulties he has overcome and the growth he has experienced, emphasizing that he still has a meaningful life ahead of him.
If you or someone you know is struggling with similar challenges, there are resources available to provide support and guidance. It’s essential to seek help and work towards healing and recovery.
Ken’s story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of resilience in the face of adversity. His journey serves as a reminder that even in our darkest moments, there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow.


