Over a lifetime, one in 10 people will have an epileptic seizure, and one in 26 will be diagnosed with epilepsy, making it the most common serious brain disorder worldwide. Yet, despite its prevalence, according to the Epilepsy Foundation Alabama, epilepsy receives 10 times less funding than other brain disorders.

 

Epilepsy Foundation Alabama is looking to change that.

 

The organization will host its 2021 Walk to END EPILEPSY® on Saturday, November 6 at Railroad Park in downtown Birmingham, all in an effort to support the more than 54,000 people with epilepsy across the state. Registration will begin at 10 a.m. that day.

 

“The pandemic has changed many things, but one thing that hasn’t changed is our commitment to our epilepsy community,” said Sara Franklin, executive director of community engagement and partnerships at Epilepsy Foundation. “With each step and fundraising dollar, we’re closer to helping people with epilepsy be free from epilepsy and free from fear of the next seizure.”

 

November is National Epilepsy Awareness Month, and this walk will bring the community together to affect change through care, advocacy, research, and education. The family-friendly walk will help create awareness, share stories, help educate others, and raise funds to support people living with epilepsy, the Foundation said. The Walk’s goal is to raise $100,000.

 

The outdoor event will be held in accordance with CDC, state, and local health guidance and regulations, the Foundation said.

 

“So many wonderful people from across our state have been involved with the Epilepsy Foundation since the organization was launched in our state in 1971, exactly 50 years ago,” said Amy Padgett, community engagement board chair for Epilepsy Foundation Alabama. “The walk this fall will be a wonderful way to reflect on the difference the Epilepsy Foundation has made on people’s lives and creates an opportunity to bring attention to the prevalence of the epilepsies.” 

 

 

To learn more and register for the walk, click here.

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Cover Photo Credit: Epilepsy Foundation Alabama