Local Office Spotlight: Epilepsy Foundation Washington

Epilepsy News From: Tuesday, November 20, 2018

Anyone can have a seizure. Most people do not know what to do or steps to take when they witness someone having a seizure. This is among the many reasons why the Epilepsy Foundation seeks to ensure everyone knows seizure first aid. Through its local network offices, the Epilepsy Foundation provides seizure first aid training in many settings such as schools, businesses, and agencies. This month, we shine a spotlight on a seizure response program provided by Epilepsy Foundation Washington (EFWA).

Teaching Seizure Response

Recently, Jessica Veach, communications manager at Epilepsy Foundation Washington, and Andrew Buckles, a volunteer, provided epilepsy education training at a Seattle-area business. The business and Epilepsy Foundation Washington have an established relationship and the company's employees continually participate in and volunteer at EFWA events.

This interactive training provides an overview of epilepsy, types of seizures, and seizure first aid. Training participants learn to recognize the major seizure types and their differences. Additionally, participants are empowered to take appropriate actions and use seizure first aid when they see someone having a seizure.

Empowered to Act

After a recent meeting, employees who participated in the epilepsy response training were present when someone had a seizure.

These employees felt confident and very prepared to support the person having a seizure, said a company spokesperson.

Although most seizures are not an emergency, local emergency medical services were summoned. Paramedics in route to the office incorrectly instructed the caller to start CPR. The employees knew not to start CPR, but immediately began seizure first aid.

The person who had the seizure is okay. It was her first seizure.

"The company is very grateful for its relationship with Epilepsy Foundation Washington," said Jessica. "They are thankful that we helped them learn to recognize seizures and know exactly what to do during an emergency. EFWA is also grateful for this partnership and the company's continued support."

Other programs from Epilepsy Foundation Washington include self-management epilepsy support groups, community education, employment assistance and Camp Discovery, a camp for children with epilepsy.

Thank you, Epilepsy Foundation Washington, for empowering others by teaching seizure response and for all the services and programs you provide in your region.

Reviewed Date

Tuesday, November 20, 2018

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