Spotlight on Expanding Access to Rural Communities in West Virginia
Epilepsy News From: Monday, June 10, 2019
Epilepsy Foundation West Virginia
This month, we shine a spotlight on the Epilepsy Foundation West Virginia (EFWV). This new local Foundation with a staff of one works around the clock to reach out to rural and underserved communities in the state to build awareness and support. Expanding access and services to underserved communities is a key part of our cooperative agreement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Raising Epilepsy Awareness in the Mountain State
As West Virginia prepares to acknowledge its 156th birthday as a state, EFWV is also celebrating the six-month anniversary of its formation as a chapter. As with any new organization, they have primarily focused on establishing relationships with those affected by epilepsy, their family members, and providers.
"With over 24,000 square miles to cover, this experience has allowed me to meet some wonderful families, medical professionals, and support networks who are very excited to learn that the Epilepsy Foundation is now in the Mountain State," Chris continued.
This first six months has been all about awareness. Chris has presented to area civic organizations, participated in health fairs, created brochures for local school nurses to distribute, and established support groups. The whirlwind of training has inspired EFWV to create fundraisers and develop a network of professionals whose values align with the Epilepsy Foundation.
Teens Speak Up! and Walk to END EPILEPSY – D.C.
One of the highlights for EFWV so far was attending the Walk to END EPILEPSY and Teens Speak Up!/Public Policy Institute in Washington, D.C., with their EFWV teen representative, Carlie Ice.
“Carlie has not only become an effective advocate, but has given a face to our chapter,” said Chris. “She, along with others who suffer from epilepsy, have given me insight into the disease’s effect on mental as well as physical health.”
Building Relationships to Expand Access
The EFWV advisory board has been instrumental in helping to establish objectives and timelines for upcoming projects. They continue to offer support and suggestions on raising awareness throughout the state.
Chris has met with pharmaceutical representatives and doctors to ensure EFWV resources and information are up to date and relevant.
“I presented at the state school nurses conference in June to raise awareness of our Foundation and the resources we offer,” Chris continued.
“As volunteers get established, I am planning additional support groups in underserved areas throughout the state,” said Chris. “Because our state has many rural areas, I plan to also create awareness of resources and events via social media. I will continue to work with school systems to provide training and plan to begin training law enforcement and emergency personnel as well.”
Engaging the Local Community
Recently, EFWV partnered with a high school program to fundraise for Lemonade for Livy and plans to continue selling frozen lemonade at various events. They also began planning for the first EFWV Walk to END EPILEPSY®, which will be on October 6, 2019, in Morgantown, WV.
To encourage broad participation, EFWV is working on a virtual gala and silent auction so that people from all over the state can take part. They are also working with a local nail salon to do manicures and pedicures with purple nail polish, with proceeds benefiting EFWV.
Thank you to the Epilepsy Foundation West Virginia for expanding access and services to people living with epilepsy in the Mountain State!
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Authored by
Chris Mullett
Reviewed by
Liz Dueweke MPH
Reviewed Date
Monday, June 10, 2019