‘There is a misconception that epilepsy means you are useless’

Seven years of job hunting thwarted by his condition

ABU DHABI // Y K has spent seven years looking in vain for a job after he was forced to retire from the military, aged 28.

“When I’m asked by prospective employers why I retired, and I tell them because of my epilepsy, they turn me down,” he says.

Understandably, he is a little resentful.

“I have studied and worked for my entire adult life, but since it was discovered I had epilepsy I have been given a death sentence by society. I did not choose to get epilepsy.

“There is a misconception that epilepsy means you are useless. I have a lot to give.

“I have experience, I have degrees, I’ve studied abroad and I’m an expert in my field. I can still serve my country.”

Y K joined the military in 1996 and was sent to the Netherlands to continue his education.

“I was one of the few Emiratis to be a licensed marine at the time. When I came back I was made a sea captain and commanded large military vessels,” he said.

He always worked the night shift, from 9pm to 5am.

“I was required to be on deck the whole time and sometimes it would get really cold. Naturally after years of doing this I was exhausted, but I loved my job.”

Y K began feeling tremors in his left hand that spread to his entire body.

“I fainted a few times, but Zayed Military Hospital gave me some medicine and I felt better. The doctor said that if I slept well and took my medication, I would be fine.”

The military moved him to an administrative position, but his tremors continued. “I was put on retirement, and I understand that, because the military is for the fit.”

When he was forced to retire, he was supporting two wives and six children.

He decided to continue his education but ran into financial difficulties.

“I couldn’t continue paying for it so I looked for a scholarship and was accepted to an Adnoc programme.”

He hopes that when he graduates next year the company will offer him a full-time job.

“A friend helped me get into the programme but told me not to say I have epilepsy. I know if I tell them they will kick me out.

“I feel guilty that I didn’t tell them, but I support eight children. I need this job.

“If I had told them then I would be at home right now wondering how I could ever afford to raise my children and give them a good education.”

salnuwais@thenational.ae