GB Magazine July 2022 | Page 33

When a loved one is diagnosed with epilepsy , one of the first responses may be one of fear and a need to find as much information as possible . The Epilepsy Foundation of San Diego County was founded in 1954 to do just that . It helps connect the more than 50,000 people living with epilepsy in San Diego with other families , medical professionals , support groups and programs that are so important to everyone who is impacted .
One in ten people will experience a seizure in their lifetime and one in twenty-six will be diagnosed with epilepsy . EFSDC ’ s mission is to provide programs and services like epilepsy information and referrals , support groups , individual and family counseling services , training for medical and school personnel and special summer camps for teens and children with epilepsy . These programs and services are provided free of charge .
“ They say it takes a village and indeed it does ; family , friends , doctors , healthcare workers , to name a few and of course the Epilepsy Foundation of San Diego County , who have connected us with so many other families living with
Scott Hilkene , Sarah Anaya and their son Jake with his seizure certified dog , Esme epilepsy ,” shared Sarah . “ EFSDC has been , and continues to be , an amazing resource to us throughout our journey and has been with us every step of the way . In recent years , they have also been a great resource to Jake who engages in many of the programs they offer for young adults . EFSDC works tirelessly to offer advocacy , counseling , support and programs for people and families living with epilepsy .”
Each year at the Sharon ’ s Ride . Run . Walk . for Epilepsy in San Diego , Sarah and her family our highest fundraising team raise more than $ 30,000 from friends , colleagues and families to help EFSDC provide educational programming and support to the community . Thank you to Sarah Anaya , Jake and Scott for all their work to make a difference !
The EFSDC ’ s annual Education Conference will be held the morning of Saturday , July 30 , 2022 at Academy of Our Lady of Peace . For more information , please visit www . epilepsysandiego . org .
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