A KIRKINTILLOCH man who suffered from a 33-minute-long seizure is calling on members of the public and employers to understand the seriousness and side effects of epilepsy.

Billy Harris’ family were told that he only had a 30 per cent chance of survival after he fell into status epilepticus last month.

The 42-year-old was put into an induced coma and was monitored in intensive care for ten days.

He wants employers and members of the public to understand the side effects those suffering from the condition face as a result of their medication.

Glasgow Times:

READ MORE: 'Immediate' hygiene concerns spark Glasgow GP clinic blood test ban

He said: “My main trigger point was stress for this seizure. I’d just lost my job a couple of weeks before.

“The dismissal letter ruled out I had arguments with staff but there was never any proof in the letter. My main side effect of epilepsy is mood disorders – I can sometimes be aggressive but not know I’m even doing it.

“I was never given the opportunity to explain about the side effects but that was the letter I got – basically just to say I was getting paid off.

“I got my final pay packet on the 25th of January and I took the seizure on the 30th.”

Legally, those who have took a seizure within the past two years must declare it to employers.

Billy fears he will find it difficult getting back into employment as he believes his condition will impose restrictions.

He added: “I’ve been in this position before where I’ve gone for an interview having had a seizure within the past few years and if I’m up against someone that’s fit and healthy, then I’m afraid it’s them who get the job.

“As soon as you declare it, businesses just think of insurance and risk assessments.”

As Billy lost his job and fell ill so suddenly, he didn’t have the chance to go to the Job Centre to look for further employment or sign on.

While he was still in a coma Billy’s sister, Lee Crome, launched a fundraiser in a bid to help her brother find his feet again.

Glasgow Times:

READ MORE: Sister of man who tragically died on River Clyde repeats demands for life saving phones

She said: “My brother is so proud and is an absolute grafter, I didn’t think he’d like the fact I made a fundraiser - but I bit the bullet.

“The stress of losing his job and financial worries is what led to his seizure. If we can take that worry away from him then that’s all that matters.”

Billy now relies on a zimmer frame for walking, has short-term memory loss and has difficulty with his speech as a result of his most recent seizure.

He vows if it wasn’t for emergency services being so prompt, he wouldn’t be here today.

He said: “The emergency services arrived within four minutes of the call. If it wasn’t for them I probably wouldn’t be here today.”

He hopes that the fundraiser will allow the public to understand the difficulties and struggles those with the condition face on a daily basis.

Billy’s fundraiser can be found HERE.