Here at SunBuggy, we helped this cause by donating our one of a kind Buggy Adventures to their Silent Auction. Money made from the auction goes directly to this Charity.
In 1983, the Epilepsy Foundation Texas was founded by current Chief Executive Officer, Donna Stahlhut with a phone in her kitchen. Taking a proactive stand, Ms. Stahlhut established a widespread network of information, resources, and support for others dealing with the multidimensional difficulties associated with epilepsy.
The lives of thousands of adults and children living with epilepsy, in the northeast, southeast, and western region of Texas have been profoundly touched by the programs and services that have grown out of this humble beginning. The Epilepsy Foundation of Texas has a rich history of providing a wide array of programs and services to benefit people with epilepsy and their families.
What is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a generic term for a variety of seizure disorders. A person with recurring seizures is said to have epilepsy. A seizure is a brief disturbance in the electrical activity of the brain.
What is the difference between seizures and epilepsy?
Seizures are a symptom of epilepsy. They occur when a group of brain cells- which normally discharge in a choice or random manner – suddenly discharge together in rhythmic bursts. Epilepsy describes a state in which a group of abnormal brain cells, scar tissue, malformation or other underlying condition makes the brain susceptible to periodic or recurring rhythmic bursts of electrical energy.
How many people does epilepsy affect?
Epilepsy is the third most common neurological disorder after stroke and Alzheimer’s disease. It affects three million Americans of all ages. Approximately 200,000 new cases of seizures and epilepsy occur each year. One in every 10 Americans will experience a seizure at some point in their lives. Three percent will eventually develop epilepsy.
What causes epilepsy?
In nearly 70% of cases, the cause is unknown. The most common causes for the remaining 30% include: head trauma resulting from automobile accidents, gunshot wounds and sports accidents; brain tumor and stroke; poisoning, such as lead or alcohol; infection and maternal injury. Some rare forms are genetic. Epilepsy is never contagious – it is impossible to get it from or give it to another person.
How is epilepsy treated?
Epilepsy may be treated with medications, surgery, electrical stimulation therapy or a special diet. Medication therapy is by far the most common and is usually the first to be tried. A number of epilepsy medications are currently available. These medications control different types of seizures. A seizure-preventing medication (also known as antiepileptic or anticonvulsant drug) won’t work properly until it reaches a certain level in the blood stream and that blood level must be maintained. It is important to follow the doctor’s instructions very carefully as to when and how much medication should be taken. The goal is to keep the blood level high enough to prevent the seizures, but not so high that it causes unwelcome side effects.
Approximately 500,000 Americans receive medical care which successfully controls their seizures without further complication. Approximately one million people experience inadequate relief from their seizures and/or treatment side effects. New medications with fewer side effects are desperately needed.
Where can I get additional information about epilepsy?
Contact the Epilepsy Foundation Texas for more information at 888-548-9716 or 713-789-6295 or info@eftx.org.