March 26th is Epilepsy Heroes Day in Virgina

RICHMOND - Governor Glenn Youngkin proclaimed March 26th Epilepsy Heroes Day in the commonwealth as a day to spread public knowledge about epilepsy and seizure first aid and change the way people think about epilepsy and seizures.

Epilepsy is a disorder of the brain causing recurrent and unprovoked seizures. Affecting 3.4 million people in the U.S. and 84,800 Virginians, it is one of the most common neurological conditions. Despite its prevalence, the public is often unable to recognize common seizure types or how to respond with appropriate first aid.

The proclamation comes on the heels of the Virginia Legislature passing H.B. 1178 on March 3rd. This bill calls for the dissemination of seizure first aid information, including posters to be displayed in a visible location, to workplaces with 25 or more employees and a Good Samaritan Clause for those responding to seizures. The bill awaits Governor Youngkin’s signature.

“Virginia needs this bill because it provides folks with the tools to respond to a seizure, as well as the legal protection to make them feel comfortable doing so,” said Jeffrey Guzman, Advocacy and Outreach Director for the Epilepsy Foundation of Virginia (EFVA). “It also allows people with epilepsy to more freely disclose their condition with colleagues without fear of retribution.”

While epilepsy is common, a still larger number of people are affected by seizures. Center for Disease Control and Prevention Data shows 1 in 10 people will have at least one seizure in their lifetime.

“It’s great that this proclamation names that anyone can be affected by a seizure, whether seizures touch them personally or a loved one,” said Suzanne Bischoff, the Executive Director for the EFVA.

The Epilepsy Foundation of Virginia (EFVA) leads the fight to overcome the challenges of living with epilepsy and accelerate therapies that save lives. Established in 1978, the foundation promotes awareness and provides assistance to the 84,800 Virginians living with epilepsy. Learn more at www.epilepsyva.com and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.