Maria Bee

Maria Bee’s story is one of resilience, perseverance, and hope. Diagnosed with epilepsy at just nine months old and also living with mild cerebral palsy, Maria spent much of her childhood overcoming challenges most people could never imagine. While other children learned everyday milestones, Maria learned to recognize seizure warnings, manage medications, and navigate life with a disability. At only two years old, she experienced status epilepticus, a life-threatening seizure emergency where her family was told to prepare for the worst. But thanks to her parents’ advocacy, life-saving care, and years of occupational, speech, and physical therapy, Maria defied expectations. Today, she is eight years seizure free, fully independent, and determined to use her journey to inspire others.

Now, Maria plans to attend Eastern Kentucky University to pursue a degree in occupational science before earning her doctorate in Occupational Therapy. Her dream is to become a pediatric occupational therapist and someday own a hippotherapy farm to help children with disabilities gain confidence, independence, and hope. After losing her mother to cancer at sixteen years old, Maria and her family have faced financial hardships, but she has never allowed obstacles to define her future. Maria’s story is a powerful reminder that a diagnosis does not define destiny, and we are honored to name her our 2026 Seize Your Future Scholarship recipient.

Chevy White

Chevy, a driven and passionate pre-medical student who is turning his epilepsy journey into a mission of advocacy, education, and healing. Diagnosed at just 15 years old, Chevy chose to live by the words:
“Why me?” became “Try me!”
Now preparing to apply to a physician assistant program in 2026, Chevy has already made an incredible impact. From studying abroad in Puerto Rico and other Latin cultures to educating communities about seizure first aid and awareness, he’s a voice for the 1 in 26 people who will be diagnosed with epilepsy in their lifetime.
Chevy lives with refractory epilepsy, meaning his seizures don’t respond to medication, yet he continues to push forward, advocate loudly, and inspire others to do the same.
We’re honored to support Chevy’s journey and proud to name him our first Seize Your Future Scholarship recipient. The future is bright and he’s just getting started!