Transformative epilepsy treatment for Nathan at Alder Hey
Nathan’s journey with epilepsy began when he was just nine years old. His seizures started as focal episodes, which occur in one specific part of the brain and then, over time, he started to experience generalised seizures, which can impact consciousness.
At sixteen years old, after many hospital visits, tests and treatments, Nathan underwent an SEEG procedure; an intense process involving electrodes placed directly into the brain to locate seizure activity.
After the SEEG, Nathan was offered Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy (LITT), a procedure which uses a laser to generate heat, which destroys targeted abnormal tissues in the brain, whilst minimising damage to healthy areas.
That first LITT treatment – the first ever performed at Alder Hey – brought real hope. Initially, Nathan’s generalised seizures stopped, his focal seizures became much less severe, and he was able to complete his GCSEs.
However, after 6 months, Nathan’s seizures returned.
We recently caught up with Nathan and his mum Nicky, to see how he’d been getting on since his first treatment, to find out what’s next in his treatment pathway, and to talk about his study plans and hopes for the future.
After his seizures returned and as part of ongoing monitoring, Nathan underwent further SEEG testing just before Christmas 2024. This revealed a small area of seizure activity just behind the region treated in his first LITT procedure.
In September this year, Nathan returned for a second LITT procedure. This time, doctors explained that the surgery carried a slightly higher risk of right-sided weakness after the procedure, which might have meant a longer recovery and physiotherapy. Thankfully, Nathan avoided these complications, and he spent just two nights in hospital following the procedure. Reflecting on the days after surgery, Nathan commented that he simply “felt clearer”. Since this second LITT, Nathan has been completely seizure-free.
“We were very fortunate to be able to go back again and have a repeat LITT procedure – we feel blessed that our team at Alder Hey and NorCESS (Northern Children’s Epilepsy Surgery Service) don’t give up.” Nicky, Nathan’s mum
Nathan turned 18 in July, celebrating with a trip to Scotland for his brother’s graduation; a moment the family describe as particularly special.
He has now started his second year studying engineering at college and is adjusting well and enjoying the challenge.
One of Nathan’s greatest passions is design. With his 3D printer at home, he has been creating everything from practical household items for his mum, to fun, spooky keyrings to hand out Trick or Treaters on Halloween. This blossoming interest in engineering and design is something Nicky believes would have felt out of reach before the improvements brought by LITT.
Nathan is beginning to explore future options too – apprenticeships, engineering pathways and even university study are now firmly on the table. The prospect of going to university is something that Nicky suggested they would not have considered possible before the LITT treatments.
“We’ve just started to look at apprenticeships and university, and have just visited a campus in Manchester. We wouldn’t have initially considered university before the treatment – that’s how much of a difference it has made.” Nicky, Nathan’s mum
Nathan recently had a surgical review with Mr Ellenbogen, Consultant Neurosurgeon at Alder Hey. He remains on anti-seizure medication for the time being, and his team continues to monitor his progress closely.
For Nathan and his family, the difference the LITT procedures has been transformative. The improved clarity, energy and confidence he feels have opened doors to education, creativity and a future filled with possibilities; a future they once feared might not be possible.
