January 14, 2009

THIS ISSUE

Speaking of Epilepsy Lecture Series
Ask an Expert!

50th Anniversary of the BC Epilepsy Society
Providing Education, Support and Advocacy

Scholarship Award Program
Apply to Access Funds for Education

Speaking of Epilepsy Lecture Series

Ask an Expert!
Due to the diverse and complex nature of epilepsy and seizures, many people have questions on these subjects. To help educate individuals with epilepsy, the people who care for them, and the general public, the BC Epilepsy Society is presenting: "Ask the Expert: Seizures and Epilepsy", on Tuesday, January 20th.

This interactive panel discussion will help answer your questions, as well as, discuss current topics relating to the medical and psycho-social aspects of epilepsy.

The speakers include individuals experienced with the medical and social aspects of epilepsy: Dr. Kevin Farrell, a pediatric neurologist, Kelly McMillan, a nurse clinician, and Kathryn Sykes, a social worker.

This event is part of the annual Speaking of Epilepsy Lecture Series hosted by the BC Epilepsy Society. Each lecture is $10, or free for current BC Epilepsy Society members. All lectures take place at the Chan Auditorium in the Education and Research Building at the BC Children’s Hospital at 4480 Oak Street (Vancouver) from 7-9pm. The 2009 Lecture Series topics and schedule are available from our website at: www.bcepilepsy.com

For more information and to RSVP, call 604-875-6704 or email info@bcepilepsy.com

50th Anniversary of the BC Epilepsy Society

Providing Education, Support and Advocacy

2009 marks the 50th anniversary of the BC Epilepsy Society. Since the incorporation of the Society in August of 1959, we have grown to provide a diverse and extensive range of programs and services, in meeting our mandate to empower, educate, and support British Columbians living with epilepsy.

The BC Epilepsy Society began under the leadership of Dr. Norman Auckland, a pediatric neurologist. He was a strong advocate for epilepsy education and support, in a time when medical options and support services for people with epilepsy were limited or non-existent.

The Society carries on with Dr. Auklands' reputation in working for the medical, social, and emotional needs of people with epilepsy. You can show your support for the BC Epilepsy Society by taking out a yearly membership ($10 for individuals and $50 for organizations). Your involvement is essential in ensuring that funding for epilepsy services and research is promoted in BC and beyond. We look forward to celebrating out 50th anniversary with you. Thank you for your support.

Scholarship Award Program

Apply to Access Funds for Education
Applications are now available for BC Epilepsy Society scholarships for the 2009-2010 school year. These $1000 grants are awarded to individuals who currently attend or plan to attend a post-secondary institution. Application is open to BC residents, ages 16 and older who are Canadian citizens or who have landed immigrant status, under a physicians' care for epilepsy, and have a current BC Epilepsy Society membership. The scholarships are awarded on the basis of educational commitment, volunteer work, and other achievements or interests.

The deadline for applications is April 30th, 2009. All supporting letters and documents must be completed and received in order to be eligible for the scholarships. The application form and further information is available from www.bcepilepsy.com

In 2008 we awarded nine $1000 scholarships to applicants throughout the province. This was two more than the previous year and more than double the amount since the initiation of the scholarship program in 2003.