National Epilepsy Awareness Month

WHEREAS, epilepsy is a neurological condition characterized by recurrent unprovoked seizures; and

WHEREAS, epilepsy is a common neurological disorder of children, teens and second only to stroke and Alzheimer’s in adults; and

WHEREAS, approximately 200,000 new cases of seizures and epilepsy are diagnosed each year; and

WHEREAS, over two-thirds of teens say they would not know what to do if a friend had a seizure; and

WHEREAS, a lack of knowledge about epilepsy leads to isolation, teasing and even bullying of children with epilepsy; and

WHEREAS, quality of life for children and teens with epilepsy can be improved with greater understanding and acceptance of children and teens with epilepsy among peers; and

WHEREAS, the Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama promotes educational programs to educate families and the Central Alabama Epilepsy Support Group strives to provide emotional and educational assistance to families affected by epilepsy in our state:

 NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim the week of November 12 through November 16, 2012 as

National Epilepsy Awareness Month

in the state of Alabama, and urge health care professionals, school officials, state official, youth organizations and community groups to unite in our state’s commitment to fight epilepsy.

Given Under My Hand and the Great Seal of the Office of the Governor at the State Capitol in the City of Montgomery on the 13th day of November 2012.

 

      

Robert Bentley, Governor