2014 Research Report Now Available

Research funded in whole or in part by Epilepsy Canada is making significant strides in advancing knowledge about the treatment of epilepsy. Read about LaFora disease- shortcut to a cure, and how VBR technology is helping doctors better manage patient care. All in the latest edition of Epilepsy Canada’s Research Report.

Team Epilepsy to run in The 2014 Scotiabank Charity Challenge

Runners can raise money for epilepsy research when they participate in the Scotiabank Toronto Water Marathon on October 19. The annual event is popular with all levels of runners from those attempting their 5K to veterans of half and full marathon distances. Epilepsy Canada will reimburse the entry fee to runners who raise a minimum of $250 for its epilepsy research fund. To register as part of the Epilepsy Canada team and begin fund raising click the Toronto Waterfront Marathon link.

Katie's Run set for July 5.

The 3rd Annual Katie’s Run for epilepsy research is being held on Saturday, July 5th. We invite you to join us. Registration for the 10km run and and 2.5 km family walk is open at www.katiesrun.ca.
All funds raised will be donated to the Epilepsy Canada research fund, which supports research into epilepsy therapies at Canadian universities and medical centres.
Come for the day, or come for a relaxing weekend. A variety of accommodations are listed on the Katie’s Run website.
Learn more...

Gary Collins, Executive Director of Epilepsy Canada shares his personal epilepsy journey.

Purple Hair 4 Epilepsy draws attention to the need for research funding

If later this month you see a middle-aged executive with purple hair on the streets of Toronto, chances are it will be business consultant Gary Collins, who also serves as Executive Director of Epilepsy Canada.

March 26 is International Epilepsy Awareness Day and Gary has committed to dye his hair purple on that day to raise money for epilepsy research.   

Gary Collins, Executive Director Epilepsy Canada

Over 300,000 Canadians, including Mr. Collins, have been diagnosed with epilepsy. Another 15,000 will be diagnosed this year. Children and seniors are the two most frequently diagnosed groups.

Epilepsy affects one of every 100 people worldwide. Gary was diagnosed with epilepsy at age 30.  The diagnosis immediately raised safety concerns and impacted his job and family.  “I worked in sales and immediately my driver’s license was suspended and I was unable to fly to see customers alone.” 

Gary volunteered to help at Epilepsy Canada because he considers himself extremely fortunate.  He says, “Things turned out OK for me. After a short trial, my doctors were able to find medication that controlled the seizures and allowed me to resume my career and a normal life. That’s not the case for many.”

With correct diagnosis and medication up to 70% of epileptics are able to live productive lives, seizure free.  But much more needs to be done to find therapies to help the 30% who have seizures that are resistant to drug therapies.

During March, Epilepsy Awareness month, people are being encouraged to donate to Epilepsy Canada’s research grants program.  Since 1966, Epilepsy Canada has annually funded important epilepsy research projects at major Canadian hospitals and universities.  Money raised by the Purple Hair 4 Epilepsy and other initiatives will contribute to keeping the funding program alive.
Those who wish to sponsor Gary or others who have pledged to colour their hair purple can do so online at Purple Hair 4 Epilepsy.com

Young Movie Actress Supports Epilepsy Canada

Rylie Behr

Rylie Behr is a remarkable young actress with big dreams. Barely into her teens, she has completed several film projects.

Rylie was diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of three.  Since that time, she has learned how to listen to her body and to accomplish her goals while managing her condition. Most importantly, with the help of a supportive family she hasn't allowed her health concerns to define her. View her story...

Avertus Epilepsy Survey Deadline Extended to February 7.

Thank you to all those who have taken the Avertus survey. The response rate has been excellent, but we would like to give everyone a chance to respond. Accordingly, the deadline has been extended until Friday, February 7, 2014. Your responses and insights are critical for the early development of a new medical device that can improve the lives of millions of people affected by epilepsy.
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Avertus Epilepsy Technologies Inc. is a new business formed to develop a new promising technology - a seizure monitoring and detection device for home use.  Avertus in partnership with researchers at the University of Toronto are the development team working on a breakthrough system for the management and treatment of epilepsy.

The company is asking for those with epilepsy OR those who care for a loved one with epilepsy, to complete a short survey that will help us:

1. Determine the interest level of the technology underdevelopment;
2. Identify the critical features of the technology that will help guide its development and;
3. Develop a better understanding of the needs of the epilepsy community.

The survey is voluntary. The insights and opinions will be used to assist the research team in guiding the development of this new technology.  
The survey will take you approximately 15-20 minutes and your responses are completely confidential and anonymous.

SURVEY LINK:   http://fluidsurveys.com/s/epilepsy_survey/