Samantha, 23, was diagnosed with narcolepsy at the age of 17. The aspect of the disease that affects her most is cataplexy, an instant loss of muscular control in response to strong emotions like laughter, fear or shock. She tried hard to keep her condition secret - but an incident at university revealed it publicly.
`I know we're not meant to be embarrassed. It's one of the first things you're told, because you can't help it. But it doesn't really help,' she says.
Ken and Christine's 40-year marriage was tested due to the mounting strain of 59-year-old Ken's narcolepsy. He's unable to stay awake for most of the day and Christine feels a mix of guilt and frustration due to the strain of the condition.
Tony, 14, was diagnosed with narcolepsy at the age of six. He has difficulty staying awake during school and has to be accompanied by a classroom assistant. Having struggled with previous medication, Tony is determined to explore alternative treatments.
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On TV
First Shown
| Date | Time | Channel |
|---|---|---|
| Sunday 23 November 2008 | 10PM | More4 |
Last Shown
| Date | Time | Channel |
|---|---|---|
| Monday 24 November 2008 | 2AM | More4 |
