Healthy Living
Numerous changes have occurred since the start of 2018 for the Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama. Formerly the Epilepsy Chapter of Greater Mobile and the Gulf Coast, the organization was previously an affiliate of the larger national organization, the Epilepsy Foundation of America. However, the Board of Directors voted in late 2017 to join the national organization as an official chapter, thus changing its name to Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama. While the organization has always served the entire state, this change also led to the board’s decision to move their state offices from Mobile to Birmingham. “This decision was not made lightly by the Board,” said Mary Michael Kelley, Executive Director of the Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama. “It took a great deal of planning and consideration, but ultimately, they made the decision in order to more centrally locate the organization for the population of the state.”
The Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama seeks to improve the quality of life for individuals with Epilepsy and seizure disorders through client support, outreach, advocacy, and programs. Programs include Camp Evoked Potential, a camp for kids ages 6-18 with Epilepsy, held one week each summer; Studio E Art Program, an eight-week art therapy program for individuals with Epilepsy; and various support groups throughout the state. A national hotline is also available for families 24/7, including a Spanish hotline. “Ultimately, it’s about addressing the major needs of our clients – medication accessibility, transportation, access to care, and fighting misconceptions and discrimination,” explained Kelley
Opportunity for Local Involvement. While the organizational history is vast, it’s presence in Birmingham is quite new. “We are working diligently to get out the word to individuals and their families that we’re here,” said Kelley. “Our hope is that the more they see and hear from us, the likelier that they’ll want to step up and get involved.” The Foundation will host The Walk to End Epilepsy at Railroad Park November 3. Details and registration can be found at www.WalkToEndEpilepsy.org/Birmingham. To learn more about the Foundation and how you can be involved visit www.epilepsy.com/Alabama.You can also find the Alabama chapter on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Just search Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama. †
