Marianna’s Journey with Dravet Syndrome & Surestep SMOs 

November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about the millions of individuals and families affected by epilepsy and seizure disorders. 

While epilepsy is often associated with seizures, some forms of the condition can affect much more than seizure activity alone. Dravet syndrome, a rare and severe form of epilepsy that begins in infancy, can also impact a child’s development, balance, coordination, and mobility. 

For the Watson family, those challenges have been part of their daughter Marianna’s journey from the very beginning. 

A Rare Epilepsy Diagnosis

Marianna was diagnosed with Dravet syndrome at just six months old. Caused by a mutation in the SCN1A gene, the condition causes much more than seizures alone. Children with Dravet syndrome can experience developmental delays, difficulties with coordination and balance, and mobility challenges as they grow.¹

Despite the obstacles she’s faced, Marianna’s family describes her as a determined little girl who continues to surprise and inspire them.

To support her development, Marianna participates in physical, occupational, and speech therapies, each three times a week. Her therapists play a vital role in helping her build strength, coordination, and confidence as she develops new skills.

Finding the Right Support

As Marianna became more mobile, her family and care team wanted to provide additional support to help improve her stability and confidence. In late September 2026, she was fitted for Surestep SMOs. Since incorporating Surestep into her daily routine, her family has noticed meaningful changes. 

“She appears steadier on her feet, more comfortable exploring her surroundings, and increasingly willing to challenge herself physically,” said her mother, Candace.

Growing Confidence Through Everyday Moments

For Marianna’s family, the biggest changes have shown up in everyday activities. They’ve watched her confidently navigate the park, explore the playground, walk across different surfaces, and move through her environment with greater ease. They have also noticed improvements in activities that require stability and balance, such as squatting and returning to standing while she plays and explores. 

Her progress is the result of a collaborative effort involving her family, therapists, physicians, and other healthcare providers who support her development every step of the way. 

For her family, Surestep has become an important part of that team. 

Surestep has become one part of the team helping Marianna continue to move forward, alongside her therapists, physicians, and everyone who believes in her potential.

Candace, Marianna’s Mom

Having tools that support mobility and independence is especially meaningful for families navigating the uncertainty that often accompanies a complex medical diagnosis. 

During National Epilepsy Awareness Month, Marianna’s story serves as a reminder that the challenges extend beyond seizures. When children have supportive therapies, dedicated care teams, and mobility solutions like Surestep, they can build the stability and confidence that shape their overall wellness, development, and a brighter future.