This is a pivotal time for epilepsy research. Our understanding of epilepsy has never been greater. In an environment of remarkable advances, innovative discoveries and new approaches to diagnosis, treatment and prevention, the time to intensify our search for a cure is now.

Recent advances in technology and the decoding of the human genome have opened the door to new avenues of research. Research in genetics, new drug development, surgery and technology hold the key to controlling and preventing seizures.

We have never been so close.

Looking back on the progress in the last generation, it is not surprising that the leaders in epilepsy research believe that a cure may in sight. For the first time, we can think in terms of “cure”—not just “control”. Now is the time to build on the remarkable progress of the past few years. And we can do it by investing more money in scientific research than we ever have before.

Since 1968, the Epilepsy Foundation has served as the only national voluntary health organization wholly dedicated to the welfare of people with epilepsy. The mission of the Epilepsy Foundation is to ensure that people with seizures are able to participate in all life experiences; and to prevent, control and cure epilepsy through research, education, advocacy and services. During 35 years of service the Epilepsy Foundation and its generous supporters have channeled more than $20,000,000 into epilepsy research.

Today, the Epilepsy Foundation is partnering with the Epilepsy Therapy Project — a charitable foundation that shares the dream of freedom from seizures and side effects. In 2002, a group of parents, distinguished physicians and researchers established the Epilepsy Therapy Project. Its mission: to advance new treatments for people living with epilepsy. Together, the Epilepsy Foundation and the Epilepsy Therapy Project have created the Epilepsy Research Foundation to fund new and innovative research that can bring us closer to a cure.

Thanks to past investment in research, there is new hope. But seizure control is not enough. With currently available therapies, people with epilepsy still face significant obstacles. They confront an unemployment rate that is five times the national average. Myths and misconceptions about seizures make stigma and discrimination a daily challenge. But, because of recent major advances, for the first time in human history a world free of seizures and without treatment-related side effects lies within our reach.

The Time Is Now

The stunning new technologies developed during the last ten years have created a unique opportunity for breakthrough research in areas such as genetics, treatment delivery devices, surgical techniques, diagnostic tools, early intervention and seizure prevention. We need to make a commitment now to fund experienced researchers to ensure that significant progress continues. Only when research funds are available will the work be done to discover new techniques, new treatments and new information to give those who have epilepsy their lives back.

Pledges and contributions to support the Epilepsy Research Foundation can be made through the Epilepsy Therapy Project or through the Epilepsy Foundation. To contribute online go to our donation page.

New research dollars must be found to fund innovative senior level research projects led by the nation’s leading scientists. The Epilepsy Research Foundation’s commitment will focus on:

• Research with potential to discover new therapies and a cure for seizure disorders.
• Meaningful grants to senior level scientific and clinical investigators on the brink of new discoveries, working at the nation’s leading academic and research institutions, and in industry.
• Innovative cutting edge projects that could lead to breakthrough discoveries.
• Research programs that might not otherwise be funded through traditional sources.
• Projects that encourage collaboration among scientists and industry.

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