Today, November 1st, is the start of Epilepsy Awareness Month, a time when the community comes together to raise awareness about how common epilepsy is, battle the stigma often associated with epilepsy, and reinforce the importance of funding research to find a cure. In recognition of this month, CURE Epilepsy is launching our Say the Word #SayEpilepsy campaign. Our goal is to help people understand the importance of saying the word “epilepsy” whether it be an individual with epilepsy who avoids the word because they‘re worried about people’s reaction or a medical professional who speaks of seizure disorders to their patients without ever using the word “epilepsy”. We can’t find a cure for, raise awareness about, or fight the stigma against epilepsy if we don’t use the word.

We are focusing very specifically on #SayEpilepsy, as we have heard all too often that there are people living with epilepsy who are told that they have a “generalized seizure disorder” rather than being told that they have “epilepsy,” and other individuals who just aren’t comfortable acknowledging to others that they live with epilepsy. Unfortunately, avoiding the word “epilepsy” can make finding the right treatment plan, doctor, specialist, or support system even harder. Additionally, the less people within the epilepsy community (patients, caregivers, advocates, friends, clinicians, and researchers) use the word “epilepsy” the harder it becomes for the non-epilepsy community to understand how prevalent this neurological disorder is. By choosing to #SayEpilepsy, you are showing your support for the epilepsy community, helping educate your friends/family/colleagues, and working to raise awareness about epilepsy.

Check out some of the many #SayEpilepsy videos on our website to hear individuals share why it is important we Say the Word #SayEpilepsy. Help us spread awareness by sharing these videos on social media or sharing your own #SayEpilepsy story (in written or video format) on social media and don’t forget to tag us!

Through research and through saying the word “epilepsy” there is hope.