Their daughter can have over 100 seizures a day

By CNA Insider

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"When the seizures hit, there's actually very little we can do." That's what Gina Tan says about caring for her daughter, Freida, who can experience over 100 seizures a day. Freida was just three months old when Gina and her husband, Ong Ee Chong, noticed unusual movements. Freida was later diagnosed with West syndrome, a rare form of infant epilepsy that can affect brain development. At 3, she could not sit or stand on her own, had difficulty swallowing and was unable to speak. Caring for Freida while juggling work has also put a strain on the couple's marriage. But they've adapted their routines to meet her needs, from using a feeding tube to giving her daily exercises to strengthen her legs. And while Freida cannot speak, an eye-tracking device allows her to communicate what she wants. While Ee Chong isn't sure how much Freida understands their words, he hopes she knows that she shouldn't give up, because her parents will always be there for her. Watch the full By Your Side ep

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