Thank you for helping. Reid is a 21-year-old college student living with epilepsy.
Most seizures end on their own. Your calm actions can make a tremendous difference.
This page will walk you through exactly what to do.
Take a deep breath. Stay with Reid. Remain calm — your presence matters.
Move furniture or dangerous objects out of the way. Protect his head. If possible, gently roll him onto his side once the seizure ends.
Use your phone's clock or timer. Knowing exactly how long the seizure lasts is critical for the next steps.
The VNS magnet is attached to Reid's Emergency Response Kit (lanyard or backpack), next to his emergency medication — the same kit this QR code is attached to.
The VNS device is implanted just below Reid's left collarbone. It works through clothing — there's no need to expose the device.
Activate: Place the magnet over the implanted device and move it in a continuous figure-8 (∞) motion while slowly counting to five. Don't try to straighten, hold down, or restrain Reid — work around his natural movements while keeping him safe.
Remove: The stimulation begins once the magnet is moved away from the device.
Repeat if needed: If the seizure continues after 60 seconds, repeat the figure-8 swipe. If it continues for another 60 seconds, repeat a third time.
Maximum: Three VNS magnet activations per seizure event, or follow Reid's neurologist's specific instructions.
Reid carries emergency seizure medication (Nayzilam).
If the seizure lasts longer than 3 minutes despite VNS magnet use, follow Reid's Seizure Action Plan and administer his prescribed rescue medication.
Nayzilam 10mg Nasal Spray — 2 units at 5mg per unit.
Locate the Nayzilam. If Reid is still seizing after 3 minutes, administer it nasally, then call 911.
Tell 911 the medication has been administered, and whether he is still actively seizing or has stopped.
You will never upset us by calling 911. We would much rather have help on the way than have someone hesitate over worrying about overreacting.
Stay with him. Speak calmly. Offer reassurance. Do not rush him.
Reid is a Biology student at Piedmont University, pursuing veterinary medicine.
He loves animals, Gaming, LEGOs, and spending time with family and friends. Outside of epilepsy, he enjoys a very active college life.
Your kindness and patience mean more than you know.
If you've reached the bottom of this page — thank you. You cared enough to help another human being.
Your calm response could make one of the hardest moments in Reid's life safer, less frightening, and more manageable.
This is who you're helping.