Dear Alexandria:

“So I ask, can trauma lead to life changes?”

The traumas you mentioned include a recent rape and having been diagnosed with Autoimmune Encephalitis, which is an inflammation of the brain caused by your own white blood cells attacking your own brain. Wikipedia states that symptoms may include fever, confusion, vomiting, and complications may include seizures, hallucinations and memory problems, “altered level of consciousness, lethargy, or personality change”. Clearly, the answer to your question is: yes, this is a life changing diagnosis.

It reads in Wikipedia: “Treatment generally takes place in hospital. Some people require artificial respiration… rehabilitation may be required”.  I do hope that you receive the best available treatment and care and that you heal and recover from this illness. May the rest of the year and the approaching new year be a healthier and better year for you!

anita