November is the time to celebrate Thanksgiving with friends and family, since it’s Epilepsy Awareness Month, it’s also the perfect opportunity to give back to others.
Epilepsy, a chronic neurological disorder that leads to seizures, affects over 50 million people worldwide and 375,000 people in Florida. Its causes can range from lack of oxygen to head trauma, according to the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida (EFOF).
EFOF is a 41-year-old non-profit organization that has helped those in Florida who have epilepsy or other seizure disorders. Its volunteers and staff help struggling families by providing support, counseling, and medical services to those who can’t afford it.
Executive Director Mary Gomez said that there is a stigma related to Epilepsy, because people know so little about the disorder. “Let’s Talk About It”, an EFOF program, helps people host events to educate others on epilepsy, since it does not receive as much publicity as other conditions or disorders.
EFOF is holding events throughout November to raise awareness and money. Many Ruby Tuesdays restaurants in South Florida will donate will donate 20 percent of the bill to the Epilepsy Foundation on Nov. 12 and 13, with the presentation of a flier — which can be printed out online from www.epilepsyfla.org.
Although epilepsy affects so many people, there is not enough support for it. People of any age, race, or gender have the potential to get epilepsy.
For more information on epilepsy, including opportunities to support Epilepsy Awareness Month, visit www.epilepsyfla.org.
