We are excited to be accepting applications for the following position (view pdf here):

Web Developer

Job Title: Web Developer
Number of Positions: 1
Hourly Wage Rate: $17.00
Number of Hours/Week: 30
Number of Weeks: 9
Anticipated Start Date: May 27th, 2024
Anticipated End Date: July 26th, 2024

About Epilepsy Durham Region

Epilepsy Durham Region (EDR) promotes independence and quality of life for individuals living with epilepsy in the Durham Region. We deliver education, support and social programs for people with epilepsy from youth to seniors, and for their family caregivers. Our goal is to create a barrier free community in which epilepsy is widely understood, and where persons affected by epilepsy and seizure disorders are empowered to live a life of support, dignity, and self-worth.

Epilepsy Durham Region is seeking team members who can contribute in a hybrid remote/in- person structure, with occasional evening and weekend hours for special events.

Tasks and Responsibilities

The Web Developer will be responsible for assisting EDR with the modernization and growth of our current website – epilepsydurham.com. This will include evaluating the existing website design and structure, and identifying potential enhancements or adaptations to meet the growing needs of our organization. The Web Developer, in collaboration with the EDR staff team, will implement responsive and user-friendly designs and technologies to improve website performance, user engagement, and overall experience. Additionally, the Web Developer will integrate analytic tools to track user behaviour, develop efficiencies, and strengthen our SEO. Understanding and implementing security measures to safeguard EDR and protect our website against potential threats is a key responsibility alongside ensuring the website complies with relevant industry standards and regulations. The Web Developer should have extensive knowledge and experience in web-related programming applications, including WordPress, as well as knowledge of servers/hosting, marketing design, content creation, and email marketing. The ability to introduce innovative solutions that can contribute to continuous and sustainable improvements to EDR’s website by staying on top of industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices is an asset. The Web Developer will work in a hybrid work environment, although a majority of the duties can be carried out remotely using collaboration tools such as Office 365, Microsoft Teams, and file-sharing software.

The Web Developer must work effectively with staff members using collaboration tools and a confidential and service-oriented approach and demeanor is required as they will be representing Epilepsy Durham Region in the broader community.

Education & Experience

The Web Developer requires a post-secondary degree in a related area or equivalent experience – e.g. Computer Science, Web/App Development or comparable. Experience and knowledge directly related to the essential job functions must be defined in the cover letter.

Ideal Candidate

• Minimum two years of professional experience/placement experience in web management/development
• Proficient with WordPress, Themes/Templates, Plugin Configuration, HTML5/CSS/JavaScript technologies
• Proficient in using responsive development techniques
• Experience with form design and embedding HTML
• Understanding of servers, SQL, and server security
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and diplomacy skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Organized, self-directed with the ability to work well alone and as part of a team
• Demonstrated organization skills and the ability to effectively multi-task and triage
• Creative thinker and problem solver
• Highly focused on attention to detail
• Strong time management and administrative skills including planning and evaluation, budgeting, scheduling, project management, and assessment.
• Understanding and respect for diversity and those with disabilities
• Familiarity with non-profit operations, fundraising software, and donor management systems is preferred, but not a requirement

What soft skills are required for this position?

Teamwork – Teamwork refers to the skills needed to interact with other people. At work, people work with others in pairs and in small and large groups to coordinate tasks, share resources, plan, make decisions, negotiate, solve conflicts and complete other activities that involve teamwork.

Communication – Communication refers to the skills needed to exchange thoughts and information with other people. This exchange can happen orally by speaking, listening and using non-verbal cues, such as body language or in writing. At work, people use communication skills to talk to customers, discuss products with suppliers, explain work procedures to co-workers, participate in virtual sales meetings with clients, and other activities that involve verbal or written exchanges.

Digital Skills – Digital technology refers to the skills needed to understand and use digital systems, tools and applications, and to process digital information. At work, people use digital technology skills to input, access, analyze, organize, create and communicate information and ideas using computers, software, point-of-sale equipment, email, podcasts, web applications, smart phones and other digital devices.

Leadership – Leadership refers to a number of skills, including communication, relationship building, and the ability to delegate and traits such as honesty. At work, leadership skills are required when working in a team, demonstrating initiative, and taking responsibility for the completion of tasks that require multiple employees.

How to Apply:

Epilepsy Durham Region is committed to diversity and providing an inclusive workplace. It is our priority to ensure employment opportunities are visible and barrier-free to all under-represented groups including but not limited to, Indigenous, Black and racialized groups, people with disabilities, women and people from the 2SLGBTQIA community.

If you require an accommodation during the recruitment process, please let us know by contacting our confidential inbox director@epilepsydurham.com.

Please submit your CV and a cover letter highlighting why you’re the best candidate for this position to director@epilepsydurham.com by 4:59 pm EST on Friday, May 10th, 2024.

We are excited to be accepting applications for the following position (view pdf here):

Fundraising Consultant

Job Title: Fundraising Consultant
Number of Positions: 1
Hourly Wage Rate: $17.00
Number of Hours/Week: 30
Number of Weeks: 9
Anticipated Start Date: May 27th, 2024
Anticipated End Date: July 26th, 2024

About Epilepsy Durham Region

Epilepsy Durham Region (EDR) promotes independence and quality of life for individuals living with epilepsy in the Durham Region. We deliver education, support and social programs for people with epilepsy from youth to seniors, and for their family caregivers. Our goal is to create a barrier free community in which epilepsy is widely understood, and where persons affected by epilepsy and seizure disorders are empowered to live a life of support, dignity, and self-worth.

Epilepsy Durham Region is seeking team members who can contribute in a hybrid remote/in- person structure, with occasional evening and weekend hours for special events.

Tasks and Responsibilities

The Fundraising Consultant will be responsible for assisting EDR’s Fund Development and Community Engagement Lead in all fundraising activities as well as working directly with the Executive Director to support local community fundraising and engagement events. They will be responsible for various tasks related to stakeholder communication, including conducting outreach to potential donors, sponsors, and partners, as well as supporting our communications specialist in content creation to enhance both online and in-person engagement. The Fundraising Consultant will have a key role in the planning and execution of both virtual and in-person events, including venue arrangements, sponsorship promotions, registrations, and budgets to ensure seamless event execution and positive attendee experience. In addition, the Fundraising Consultant will assist in managing and updating donor database software, inputting and organizing data related to fundraising activities, and generating reports to track fundraising progress. They will work collaboratively with the EDR team (Fund Development Specialist, Communications Specialist, and Executive Director) in a hybrid work environment to ensure effective organization communication and financial sustainability needs are met.

The Fundraising Consultant will have knowledge of non-profit organizations and fundraising best practices. They must also develop relationships with community partners, stakeholders, and donors. The Fundraising Consultant must work effectively with staff members using collaboration tools and a confidential and service-oriented approach and demeanour is required as they will be representing Epilepsy Durham Region in the broader community.

Education & Experience

The Fundraising Consultant requires Post-secondary degree in a related area or equivalent experience – e.g. Event Management, Public Relations, Communications, Business Development, Fundraising Management, Philanthropy, Digital Event Strategist. Experience and knowledge directly related to the essential job functions must be defined in cover letter.

Ideal Candidate

• Minimum two years professional experience / placement experience
• Demonstrated ability to work with stakeholders and the public
• Caring and compassionate by nature
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, and diplomacy skills
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Organized, self-directed with the ability to work well alone and as part of a team
• Demonstrated organization skills and the ability to effectively multi-task and triage
• Creative thinker and problem solver
• Highly focused on attention to detail
• Strong time management and administrative skills including planning and evaluation, budgeting, scheduling, project management, and assessment.
• Understanding and respect for diversity and those with disabilities
• Demonstrated knowledge in working with individuals that are part of a vulnerable community or are living with a chronic health condition
• Schedule flexibility based on events and engagement opportunities (e.g., evenings and weekends when required)
• Familiarity with non-profit operations, fundraising software, and donor management systems is preferred, but not a requirement

What soft skills are required for this position?

Teamwork – Teamwork refers to the skills needed to interact with other people. At work, people work with others in pairs and in small and large groups to coordinate tasks, share resources, plan, make decisions, negotiate, solve conflicts and complete other activities that involve teamwork.

Communication – Communication refers to the skills needed to exchange thoughts and information with other people. This exchange can happen orally by speaking, listening and using non-verbal cues, such as body language or in writing. At work, people use communication skills to talk to customers, discuss products with suppliers, explain work procedures to co-workers, participate in virtual sales meetings with clients, and other activities that involve verbal or written exchanges.

Digital Skills – Digital technology refers to the skills needed to understand and use digital systems, tools and applications, and to process digital information. At work, people use digital technology skills to input, access, analyze, organize, create and communicate information and ideas using computers, software, point-of-sale equipment, email, podcasts, web applications, smart phones and other digital devices.

Leadership – Leadership refers to a number of skills, including communication, relationship building, and the ability to delegate and traits such as honesty. At work, leadership skills are required when working in a team, demonstrating initiative, and taking responsibility for the completion of tasks that require multiple employees.

How to Apply:

Epilepsy Durham Region is committed to diversity and providing an inclusive workplace. It is our priority to ensure employment opportunities are visible and barrier-free to all under-represented groups including but not limited to, Indigenous, Black and racialized groups, people with disabilities, women and people from the 2SLGBTQIA community.

If you require an accommodation during the recruitment process, please let us know by contacting our confidential inbox director@epilepsydurham.com.

Please submit your CV and a cover letter highlighting why you’re the best candidate for this position to director@epilepsydurham.com by 4:59 pm EST on Friday, May 10th, 2024.

We are excited to be accepting applications for the following position (view pdf here):

Director of Social Work and Education
Shared Employment Opportunity – Epilepsy Durham Region & Epilepsy York Region
Full-Time Contract (1 year with possibility of extension)

Salary Range: $60,000 – $65,000   
Hours / Week: 37.5  
Anticipated Start Date: June 3^rd, 2024

Community Epilepsy Agencies: Epilepsy Durham Region | Epilepsy York Region

Epilepsy Durham Region (EDR) and Epilepsy York Region (EYR) are registered non-profits that promote independence and quality of life for individuals living with epilepsy in our communities. We deliver education, support and social programs for people with epilepsy from youth to seniors, and for their family caregivers. Our goal is to create a barrier free community through awareness and advocacy initiatives in which epilepsy is widely understood, and where persons affected by epilepsy and seizure disorders are empowered to live a life of support, dignity, and self-worth.

This shared employment opportunity offers the unique experience of working with two Community Epilepsy Agencies spanning across Durham and York Region. As such, we are seeking team members who can contribute to providing services in a hybrid in-person/virtual capacity to our clients and the community. This position will include occasional evening and weekend hours for special events and group programming.

Tasks and Responsibilities

EDR and EYR are looking to fulfil the position of Director of Social Work and Education. This position is responsible for support, advocacy, and organizing services directly to individuals living with epilepsy and their caregivers; this may be done on an individual or group support basis. The successful candidate will be skilled at assessing client needs, delivering personal support and have knowledge about connecting clients to community, government, and healthcare resources. They will also deliver client, school, and community presentations in both scripted and semi-scripted formats to small and large audiences. They will facilitate a broader epilepsy community through outreach and community events. The Director of Social Work and Education contributes to creating a positive environment in areas related to physical health, mental health, social dynamics, employment or other areas. The successful candidate must have the ability to travel to presentations and events throughout our communities.

The Director of Social Work and Education will have knowledge of agencies and support systems in the general community, and be adept at connecting clients based on assessed needs. They will also be responsible for planning, organizing, and facilitating existing programs and services, as well as the development of new programming to meet client needs. They must also develop relationships with community referral partners, including maintaining and distributing education materials and resources. The Director of Social Work and Education will be a resource for in-person community events, online virtual events, and developing content suitable for print, web, email or social distribution. Other duties of the position may vary and be assigned on an as needed basis. 

The Director of Social Work and Education must work effectively with staff members, including using collaboration tools. A confidential and service-oriented approach and demeanour is required as they will be representing EDR and EYR in the broader community. A working knowledge of technology to deliver client and educational content is a required skill set in a hybrid (in-person and online) delivery model.

Education & Experience

The Director of Social Work and Education requires a post-secondary degree in a related area such as Social Work, Health Sciences, or Mental Health Studies. Experience and knowledge directly related to the essential job functions must be demonstratable. The successful candidate will have:

• Minimum two years professional experience and/or placement experience
• Masters Degree in Social Work is an asset but not mandatory

Ideal Candidate

• Experience in individual and group support services / counselling, education, case management, and system navigation of both social services and healthcare
• Demonstrated experience working with chronic health or neurological conditions
• Knowledge of a client intake process and case management software
• Understanding and respect for diversity and those with disabilities
• Caring and compassionate by nature
• Demonstrated experience working with vulnerable individuals
• Knowledge / experience in support group planning, organization, and facilitation
• Excellent interpersonal, communication, presentation, public speaking and diplomacy skills
• Demonstrated ability to positively connect and engage with community organization professionals (including other epilepsy agencies across the province), stakeholders and the public
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong time management skills
• Demonstrated organization skills and the ability to effectively multi-task and triage
• Self-directed with the ability to work well alone and as part of a team
• Highly focused on attention to detail
• Creative thinker and problem solver
• Driver’s license and access to a vehicle is an asset

What soft skills are required for this position?

Client Service – Client Service refers to the ability to communicate efficiently and professionally with clients. At work, client service skills are required to interact with clients on behalf of the employer.

Teamwork – Teamwork refers to the skills needed to interact with other people. At work, people work with others in pairs and in small and large groups to coordinate tasks, share resources, plan, make decisions, negotiate, solve conflicts and complete other activities that involve teamwork.

Communication – Communication refers to the skills needed to exchange thoughts and information with other people. This exchange can happen orally by speaking, listening and using non-verbal cues, such as body language or in writing. At work, people use communication skills to talk to customers, discuss products with suppliers, explain work procedures to co-workers, participate in virtual sales meetings with clients, and other activities that involve verbal or written exchanges.

Digital Skills – Digital technology refers to the skills needed to understand and use digital systems, tools and applications, and to process digital information. At work, people use digital technology skills to input, access, analyze, organize, create and communicate information and ideas using computers, software, point-of-sale equipment, email, podcasts, web applications, smart phones and other digital devices. 

Leadership – Leadership refers to a number of skills, including communication, relationship building, and the ability to delegate and traits such as honesty. At work, leadership skills are required when working in a team, demonstrating initiative, and taking responsibility for the completion of tasks that require multiple employees.

Please submit your cover letter and resume highlighting why you’re the best candidate for this position to EDR Executive Director, Chelsea Kerstens at ckerstens@epilepsydurham.com AND EYR Executive Director, Claudia Cozza at ccozza@epilepsyyork.org . We are thankful to all those who apply; however, please note that only individuals selected for further consideration will be contacted.

EDR and EYR are committed to diversity and providing an inclusive workplace. It is our priority to ensure employment opportunities are visible and barrier-free to all under-represented groups including but not limited to, Indigenous, Black and racialized groups, people with disabilities, women and people from the 2SLGBTQIA community.

If you require an accommodation during the recruitment process, please let us know by contacting our confidential inbox ckerstens@epilepsydurham.com AND ccozza@epilepsyyork.org .

Volunteering is a cornerstone of community support, fostering connections, empathy, and positive change. At Epilepsy Durham Region, we understand the invaluable impact of volunteers in our mission to raise awareness and support individuals affected by epilepsy. Let’s recognize and celebrate every volunteer and each contribution they’re making to strengthen inclusivity and wellbeing in our community. Now more than ever, Every Moment Matters! Let’s delve into why volunteering is essential, explore its benefits, and outline the various volunteer positions we have available.

We would like to extend our heartfelt appreciation to all those who have dedicated their time and effort to volunteer with us at Epilepsy Durham Region. To our current volunteers, your ongoing commitment and passion drive our mission forward, making a tangible impact on the lives of individuals living with epilepsy in our community. And to those who have volunteered with us in the past, your contributions have laid the foundation for the positive changes we continue to enact. Each one of you plays a vital role in strengthening inclusivity and support for individuals affected by epilepsy, and for that, we offer a big thank you. Your dedication embodies the spirit of community and compassion that defines our organization, and we are immensely grateful for your continued support. Together, we are making a real difference, one moment at a time.

Why Volunteer?

Volunteering is not just about giving; it’s about receiving too. When individuals offer their time and skills, they become part of something larger than themselves. Volunteering provides a sense of purpose, belonging, and fulfillment. It allows individuals to contribute to causes they’re passionate about while making a tangible difference in the lives of others. For those involved with Epilepsy Durham Region, volunteering means joining a supportive community dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by epilepsy.

The Benefits of Volunteering:

1. Personal Growth: Volunteering offers opportunities for personal growth and development. Whether gaining new skills, building confidence, or discovering passions, volunteers often find themselves enriched by their experiences.
2. Social Connection: Volunteering fosters social connections and networks, combating feelings of isolation and loneliness. It brings people together, forging meaningful relationships built on shared values and common goals.
3. Health and Well-being: Numerous studies have shown that volunteering can have positive effects on mental and physical health. The act of giving back releases endorphins, reduces stress, and boosts overall well-being.
4. Professional Development: Volunteering can enhance one’s professional skills and resume. Whether through leadership opportunities, project management, or networking, volunteers can gain valuable experience that can translate into career advancement.

Meet Marla:

Meet Marla, a remarkable individual whose journey with epilepsy led her to Epilepsy Durham Region. Diagnosed with epilepsy at 16, Marla struggled alone to navigate the challenges associated with her condition. However, with proper medication and support, she gained control over her epilepsy.

New to Durham Region and interested in getting involved in her community in new ways, it was at an Epilepsy Durham Region event that Marla had an epiphany. Inspired by the organization’s dedication to raising awareness and supporting individuals like herself, she decided to volunteer her time. From assisting with events to sharing her story, Marla has become an integral part of the Epilepsy Durham Region community, empowering others and raising awareness one step at a time.

Volunteer Positions Available:

1. Web Development: We’re seeking volunteers with experience in WordPress and web development to assist with website updates and maintenance.
2. Event Support: Volunteers are needed to support various events throughout the year, including our Golf tournament and other fundraisers. From logistics to participant engagement, your assistance is invaluable.
3. Storytellers: We invite individuals to volunteer to share their personal stories with us. By sharing your journey with epilepsy, you help us raise awareness and foster understanding within our community.

Volunteering is a transformative experience that not only benefits the people in our community living with epilepsy but also enriches the lives of those who give their time and effort. At Epilepsy Durham Region, volunteering is at the heart of our mission, driving positive change and support for individuals affected by epilepsy. Whether through website development, event support, or storytelling, there are countless ways to get involved and make a difference. Join us in our commitment to raising awareness, fostering support, and empowering individuals on their journey with epilepsy.

Contact us today to get involved or click here to fill in our online form.

Empower Aydin.

Imagine facing the world with 100 daily seizures, navigating through the uncertainty of 10 different medications, and enduring the hopes and disappointments of numerous treatments–all before turning 16. This is Aydin’s reality. But it’s not what defines him; it’s his unyielding courage and advocacy for epilepsy awareness that makes him a true inspiration.

At 11 years old, Aydin bravely shared his experience being bullied at school: “It was grade three when someone started bullying me. They were calling me a “spaz” and “seizure boy” and somebody pretended to have a seizure…things would be a lot different knowing that I could go to school without constantly being bullied by people because of my epilepsy.”

Aydin is now 16 years old and continues to advocate for himself and those in the epilepsy community. Despite the relentless challenges, including a rare diagnosis of Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome at 12 years old and the shadow of SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy), Aydin tries to find ways to cope with the mental health challenges that often accompany living with epilepsy. Last year, he wrote and recorded a song to help process his daily struggles with the disease, but he also is looking for more community support to know he is not alone. Watch this video to hear directly from Aydin and his mom, Melike. His story is a powerful reminder of the invisible battles many face, the crucial need for increased mental health support and the profound impact we can have by offering our support.

March 26th is Purple Day, our national day for Epilepsy Awareness! We invite you to join us in making a tangible difference in the lives of adults and youth navigating stigma and mental health challenges in their journey with epilepsy. By joining our Epilepsy Empowerment Giving Circle with a monthly contribution of just $25 (less than $1 a day!), you can provide sustainable support for our mental health program PROJECT UPLIFT and make it possible for us to take the next crucial steps forward in creating a youth-adapted version, tailored to empower young individuals like Aydin. Your generosity today will help us reach our goal of $3,000/year to sustainably run an annual 8-week session of UPLIFT and help move us towards adapting this vital program for youth, providing them with the unique support and resources they deserve.

Aydin’s story is a call to action. Having to move between 4 different schools and enduring countless hospital stays, his journey highlights the urgent need for specialized epilepsy support services. Your monthly gift ensures that no young person has to face epilepsy alone. It’s more than a donation; it’s a pledge to stand with those battling epilepsy, offering them hope and empowerment.

We are 10 monthly supporters away from transforming the lives of many. Will you be one of the remarkable individuals to answer this call? Join our Epilepsy Empowerment Giving Circle today and light a path of hope for those like Aydin.

Every gift brings us closer to a world where epilepsy is not a barrier to a fulfilled life. The initial North American pilot of Project UPLIFT found that UPLIFT participants had improved depression, anxiety, and psychological quality of life – even a full year after they finished the program. Join us in making this vision a reality for Aydin and so many others in our community by becoming a monthly supporter today.

Epilepsy, a neurological disease characterized by recurrent seizures, has long been shrouded in misconceptions and misunderstandings. Yet, with advancements in medical research and increased awareness, we’re gradually demystifying this condition. In this blog, we delve into the various types of epilepsy, explore its causes, and debunk prevalent myths, aiming to foster a deeper understanding of this complex disorder.

Understanding Epilepsy:

Epilepsy manifests through seizures, which are disruptions in the brain’s electrical activity. These seizures can vary widely in their presentation, duration, and impact on the individual. Broadly categorized into two types—focal and generalized seizures—epilepsy encompasses a spectrum of manifestations.

1. Focal Seizures: Formerly known as partial seizures, focal seizures originate in a specific region of the brain. Symptoms depend on the affected area and may include altered emotions, twitching, or sensory changes. Focal seizures can be further divided into two subtypes:
   • Focal aware seizures (previously known as simple partial seizures) where consciousness remains intact.
   • Focal impaired awareness seizures (previously known as complex partial seizures) which may involve altered consciousness or confusion.
2. Generalized Seizures: Generalized seizures involve widespread electrical disturbances across the brain from the outset. These seizures affect both hemispheres of the brain and can cause loss of consciousness and dramatic muscle contractions. Generalized seizures comprise several subtypes:
   • Absence seizures, characterized by brief lapses in awareness often mistaken for daydreaming.
   • Tonic seizures, marked by muscle stiffness.
   • Clonic seizures, characterized by rhythmic jerking movements.
   • Tonic-clonic seizures (formerly known as grand mal seizures), which involve stiffening followed by jerking motions and loss of consciousness.

Common Causes and Risk Factors:

Understanding the causes of epilepsy is crucial for effective management and treatment. While the exact cause remains unknown in many cases, several factors contribute to its development:

• Genetic predisposition: Individuals with a family history of epilepsy are at a higher risk.
• Brain injuries: Traumatic brain injuries, strokes, brain tumors, or infections can trigger epilepsy.
• Developmental disorders: Conditions such as autism or neurofibromatosis increase the likelihood of epilepsy.
• Infectious diseases: Infections like meningitis or encephalitis can lead to epilepsy.
• Prenatal factors: Maternal drug use, infections, or oxygen deprivation during birth can increase epilepsy risk in children.

Dispelling Myths and Misconceptions:

Epilepsy has been surrounded by myths and stigma throughout history, leading to social isolation and discrimination for those affected. Let’s debunk some common misconceptions:

• Myth: Epilepsy is contagious. Fact: Epilepsy is not contagious; it’s a neurological disorder.
• Myth: Seizures are always violent and life-threatening. Fact: While some seizures can be dramatic, many are brief and manageable.
• Myth: Epilepsy only affects children. Fact: Epilepsy can affect individuals of all ages and intellectual abilities.
• Myth: People with epilepsy can’t lead fulfilling lives. Fact: With proper treatment and support, many people with epilepsy live active and fulfilling lives.

Understanding epilepsy involves unraveling its complexities, from the diverse types of seizures to the myriad of underlying causes. By dispelling myths and misconceptions, we pave the way for greater acceptance and support for individuals living with epilepsy. Through continued research, education, and advocacy, we strive for a future where epilepsy is not defined by stigma but by understanding and empowerment.

References:

1. Fisher, R. S., Acevedo, C., Arzimanoglou, A., Bogacz, A., Cross, J. H., Elger, C. E., … & French, J. A. (2014). ILAE official report: a practical clinical definition of epilepsy. Epilepsia, 55(4), 475-482.
2. Scheffer, I. E., Berkovic, S., Capovilla, G., Connolly, M. B., French, J., Guilhoto, L., … & Perucca, E. (2017). ILAE classification of the epilepsies: Position paper of the ILAE Commission for Classification and Terminology. Epilepsia, 58(4), 512-521.
3. Thurman, D. J., Beghi, E., Begley, C. E., Berg, A. T., Buchhalter, J. R., Ding, D., … & Sander, J. W. (2011). Standards for epidemiologic studies and surveillance of epilepsy. Epilepsia, 52, 2-26.
4. World Health Organization. (2019). Epilepsy: Key facts. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/epilepsy

2023 is almost over! Before the clock strikes midnight, we’re inspired to share the journey of one of our devoted supporters.

Meet Randy. His involvement with Epilepsy Durham Region began serendipitously at a golf tournament fundraiser, where the infectious spirit of our team, donned in their distinctive goofy pants, captured his attention. Following this he sparked a friendly fundraising challenge with his colleague and joined future events. Randy’s commitment grew, leading him to join our EPIC Golf Tournament committee. However, what motivates him extends beyond these events.

Randy insists: “It’s the determination, passion, and commitment that the staff have shown, the genuine sense of community that’s fostered, and hearing the stories of the kids diagnosed with epilepsy and all they go through…for me, that’s what makes supporting Epilepsy Durham Region feel like the right thing to do.”

Do you set New Year’s resolutions? We do! Epilepsy Durham Region has big goals for 2024, but we need your support to reach them. We have a $15,000 goal to meet before 2023 comes to a close. This will help make it possible to:

• Relaunch PROJECT UPLIFT to enrich mental health wellbeing 

• Expand the reach of our epilepsy education programs

• Increase the number of individuals and families served in 2024

Will you join us?

We can make an even bigger difference in our community with you by our side. Help us provide vital support to children and adults living with epilepsy with a donation tonight. Your gift of any amount helps make kids like Kaydance, and her mama Heather, receive the essential and holistic care they need to successfully navigate the healthcare system, safely attend school, and continue to overcome the daily challenges of living with this disease. Together, we can make 2024 a better year for community members like Kaydance, Heather and many others. Are you with us?

Join Randy and others in making a meaningful difference in the lives of families like Kaydance and Heather by donating tonight.

DID YOU KNOW? A $50 donation goes a long way: It’s enough to cover a one on one counselling session and resources to a family to help them better understand living with epilepsy. A $200 donation can provide one school with our epilepsy education training. To donate before midnight, click here!

Meet Heather and Kaydance. Two of our incredible community members who want to share their story with you. Heather is a single mom of three children, and her middle child, Kaydance was diagnosed with epilepsy at age 3.5. Kaydance’s epilepsy is complex with multiple seizure types; she uses medications, VNS and Deep Brain Stimulation as treatments to lessen the impacts of seizures, but still her seizures are only reduced, not eliminated. Kaydance is now 17 but continues to need a similar level of support and care that she did when she was first diagnosed with the disease 14 years ago.

Kaydance’s favourite activities involve spending time with her mama, helping plant flowers and vegetables in the garden, dressing up as Elsa to go trick-or-treating with her cousin and spending time laughing with her little brother. She loves chicken nuggets, the colours pink and purple, and her favourite place to visit is where the princesses live! A Disney cruise where she met all her favourites: Ariel, Rapunzel, Elsa, and Anna. Heather shares with us that she has done everything she can to advocate and care for Kaydance, and that “anything that’s good for Kaydance is what I’m going to do”. Even as Heather does all she can, she wants others to know that, “children with epilepsy suffer quite immensely.” 

Heather and Kaydance participated in a documentary titled, “Seizing Hope”. More details of their story are shared here: https://www.seizinghopefilm.com/

Despite the many challenges that Heather has faced as a mom and primary caregiver to Kaydance, her face lights up when she shares, “Kaydance brings me joy. No matter how much of a hard day I’ve had, and how much she goes through with her struggles, she has a smile on her face every day.”

With Sick Kids Hospital being a far drive away, Heather and Kaydance connected with Epilepsy Durham Region years ago to find epilepsy support in their local community. Heather participates in our Caregiver Support Group, Clinic to Community program, and accesses educational and advocacy support for Kaydance as she navigates challenges with attending school. Heather recounts,

“I’ve always been able to reach out to Epilepsy Durham Region. I appreciate them more than I can say, to be quite honest. As a parent, you feel like you know your child the most, but you always have questions in the back of your head. Am I doing the right thing? After being involved in Epilepsy Durham Region’s educational workshop last year, I even learned things that I didn’t know after dealing with this for 13 years.”  

Without your financial support, we cannot grow our programs and capacity to come alongside more members of our epilepsy community in Durham Region. Heather reflects that without the support she received, she would still be questioning the knowledge and ability of Kaydance’s teachers to care for her at school, and may not even feel comfortable with her attending. Having this confidence has had incredible ripple effects. Now Heather can return to work to support her family. Otherwise, she would need to provide full-time care to her daughter, putting her livelihood in jeopardy.

The stakes are high for our community members, and we need your help to increase our capacity to support more families like Heather and Kaydance who often don’t know where to turn after receiving a life-changing epilepsy diagnosis. We are doing everything we can to serve as many individuals and families as possible, but we need your help.

Kaydance’s story is more than an account of challenges; it’s a testament to the impact of your generosity. Your contributions enable moments of joy in the midst of great challenges, opportunities for growth and connection, increased epilepsy awareness and understanding. These are the building blocks of a hopeful future for Kaydance and others like her. Together, we’re not just supporting individuals with epilepsy; we’re making a way forward for strength, unity, and the promise of brighter tomorrows. Will you help us build a hopeful future for others like Kaydance in 2024?

We need to raise $15,000 before 2023 comes to a close. This will help make it possible for us to provide vital mental health support through Project UPLIFT, expand our epilepsy education and advocacy programs, and increase the number of individuals and families we can dedicate ourselves to serving in the new year. If you haven’t had the chance yet, help us finish the year strong with a special year-end gift.

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Dr. Florez is a Colombian doctor trained in neurology at the University of Toronto. He began his medical journey driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact on people’s lives, leading him to a specialization in epilepsy research and practice.

Now he treats patients in Durham Region through the Oshawa Clinic. His commitment extends to community practice, aiming to optimize patient care and education, thereby reducing socioeconomic and mental health harms caused by delays in accessing epilepsy expertise.

Dr. Florez’s collaborative efforts have resulted in the growth of a group of 15 doctors dedicated to a community epileptology practice in the GTA, showcasing a distinctive and impactful initiative in the field.

Dr. Florez enjoys witnessing the positive transformations of patients under his care, particularly when patients share their achievements after overcoming epilepsy-related challenges. “When I tell them ‘well, from now on, I’m only going to follow up with you once a year’…and seeing them succeed in life at the same time that they have been diagnosed with epilepsy brings me a lot of joy.”

He finds fulfillment in the impact made on patients’ lives, observing them earn degrees, pursue careers, build relationships, and start families, demonstrating the immeasurable positive influence of epilepsy management. He also takes pride in challenging traditional norms by proving the effectiveness of community-based epileptology, gaining recognition for his pioneering efforts even within academic circles. Dr. Florez’s commitment to reducing the gap in patient care and advocating for swift referrals reflects a dedication to creating a more efficient and impactful system for epilepsy patients.

Dr. Florez emphasizes the benefits of patients getting involved in community epilepsy organizations, like Epilepsy Durham Region, highlighting the medical and mental health advantages. He notes that patient involvement in our community becomes particularly important when they face challenges such as accessing social programs, accommodations at work or school, or coping with the acceptance of their diagnosis. He insists:

He recognizes the direct link between patient care and community involvement, highlighting Epilepsy Durham Region’s role in strengthening the coping mechanisms and strategies that contribute significantly to epilepsy management.

Providing holistic support that reinforces successful outcomes for individuals managing epilepsy doesn’t happen without you in our corner. We’re thankful that you’re a part of our team. Together, we can see even more lives changed in 2024.

Will you continue your support and help our clients receive the community care they need to successfully manage their epilepsy diagnosis? 

We have a $15,000 goal to meet before 2023 comes to a close. Click the button above to send a special year-end gift and join us in serving individuals and families impacted by epilepsy now and into the new year. 

Did you know that a gift of $100 can provide a family with resources and access to our Clinic to Community program?