This month brings an opportunity to spread the word about epilepsy.
November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month, in which Congress passed a formal declaration in 2003.
Epilepsy affects more than two million people in the United States and 65 million people worldwide. This year, another 200,000 people in the U.S. will be diagnosed with epilepsy. Despite all available treatments, 30 to 40 percent of people with epilepsy continue to experience seizures (Epilepsy Foundation).
Epilepsy affects children in various stages in their life, in many different ways. Especially in children, epilepsy can limit participation in recreational, educational, or work-related activities.
According to the CDC, epilepsy can begin in children as little as 2 years old, as well as adults above the age of 65.
Epilepsy is a medical condition in which reoccurring abnormal electrical activity in the brain causes involuntary changes in the body, including movement, function and behavior. When a person has two or more unprovoked seizures, they have epilepsy.
When the physician has made a diagnosis of seizures or epilepsy, often the next step is to select the best form of treatment.
Pediatric Therapy Partners can provide therapy and treatment plans that will compliment additional methods, including surgeries, special diet, or medical treatments in the effort to prevent further seizures and avoid side effects throughout the child’s day.
Pediatric Therapy Partners is also a host for the Epilepsy Support Group “Parent Connect Support Group” for parents of kids of any age with epilepsy. Amy Haugen, the F-M Regional Community Outreach Coordinator for the Minnesota Epilepsy Foundation, leads the group the first Tuesday of each month from 7:00-9:00pm.
“PTP has been opening doors since we started Support Group a year ago,” Amy said. “It’s been a lifeline for parents and the best way to connect with each other.”
Amy personally understands the struggles with epilepsy through her children. She feels gratitude towards Pediatric Therapy Partners and the support that was given, including the opportunity to join forces in creating a great stroll team for the annual Epilepsy Stroll, a family-friendly fundraiser to raise awareness for those living with seizures and overcoming the strugglers of epilepsy. In addition to support groups, the Epilepsy Foundation also provides educational trainings with various organizations and schools and forms relationships with local businesses.
“I knew how great services were,” she said.
Amy mentions how Pediatric Therapy Partners is really involved in the lives of the parents, “trying to help the community at large.” she said. She also feels Pediatric Therapy Partners has such a great presence at the schools, as several parents take kids to the clinic.
If you have any concerns with your child, please visit us at www.pediatrictherapypartners.com and request a free screening.
Epilepsy Resources:
Epilepsy Support Group: Amy Haugen
