Dathan Trevino SOUTH TEXAS – The Epilepsy Foundation’s Central and South Texas branch was founded over 30-years ago, pledging to spread awareness and resources for epileptic individuals in 79-texas counties, including those throughout the Valley.
According to the CDC, about 3.4 million people nationwide are affected with epilepsy, a neurological disorder that can cause frequent seizures.
Palmira Peña, a community relations associate of the EFCST, said there is a need for awareness in the valley.
“There’s a lot of awareness going on in San Antonio, Austin areas, but here as far as the valley, when I go to the outreach, I run into many people who had no idea there was even a foundation,” Pena said. “They had no idea that the foundation offered services.”
Those services include seizure clinics, support groups, counseling and more; all to aid individuals with epilepsy.
Abigail Vasquez, a member of the EFCST, said she wishes more people knew how to talk and approach individuals with epilepsy revolving epileptic triggers.
“It shouldn’t be awkward; it shouldn’t be stigmatized, because like I said, ultimately we’re all having a human experience and we’re all just living day to day lives, and everybody has their own little things that, that they overcome, their own obstacles,” Vasquez said.
According to the foundation, 1 in 26 people will develop epilepsy at some point, with an estimated 200,000 diagnosed each year in the U.S.
Those diagnosed with epilepsy can receive more information and resources at www.efcst.org.
