1. Epilepsy Ontario
Queen’s University
Conference of Philanthropy
January 25, 2013

2. Epilepsy is a neurological
disorder
Epilepsy is not a disease or a
psychological disorder. It is not
contagious.
It is a physical condition that
causes sudden electrical
discharges in the brain resulting
in seizures which vary from one
person to another in frequency
and form.
Epilepsy is the second most
common neurological disorder
next to headaches.

3. 1 in 100 Canadians live with Epilepsy
65,000 Ontarians live with
epilepsy
10,000 are children
55,000 are adults
Every year over 6,000
Ontarians are diagnosed with
epilepsy

4. Symptoms of Epilepsy
 Epilepsy is best known for causing
convulsions (seizures).
 But seizures can trigger a wide range of
symptoms, from staring to falling to
fumbling with clothes.
 Doctors divide seizures into several types
depending on how the brain is affected.
 Each type has a distinct set of symptoms.

5. Types of Seizures
Generalized Tonic Clonic Seizures
•Formerly known as grand mal seizures are the most easily recognized.
•They usually begin with a stiffening of the arms and legs, following by jerking motions.
•Convulsions can last up to 3 minutes, after which the person may be tired and confused.
•Involves abnormal electrical activity involving both sides of the brain.
Absence Seizures Partial Seizures
• Just one side of the brain is
• Often described as staring
affected.
spells.
• A person stops what he or she • Simple partial seizures may cause
jerking motions or hallucinations, but
is doing and stares vacantly for a
the person often remains aware of
few seconds, then continues as if
nothing happened. what is happening.
• Complex partial seizures, people
• More common in children and
may wander, mumble, smack their
usually starts between the ages
lips, or fumble with their clothes.
of 4 and 12.
• Some children experience up to • They appear to be conscious to
observers, but are actually unaware
100 absence seizures in a day.
of what they are doing.

6. Causes of Epilepsy
Epilepsy may result from anything that disrupts the
brain's natural circuitry, such as:
 Severe head injury
 Brain infection or disease
 Stroke
 Oxygen deprivation
In nearly two-thirds of people with epilepsy, a
specific cause is never found.

7. Our Mission
Promoting independence and optimal
quality of life for those living with seizure
disorders by promoting information,
awareness, support services, advocacy,
education and research.

8. First Aid for Seizures
Stay calm
Most often a seizure will run its course and end naturally within a few minutes
Time it
If a seizure lasts more than 5 minutes or repeats without full recovery
between seizures, call 911. Call 911 if the person is pregnant, has diabetes, is
injured or if the seizure occurs in water. Call 911 if you know the person does not
have epilepsy or a seizure disorder.
Protect from injury
Move sharp objects out of the way. If the person falls to the ground, roll them to their
side and place something soft under head. If person wanders, stay close and gently steer
them from danger. When seizure ends, provide reassurance and stay with person if they
are confused. If person remains confused 1 hour after, call 911
DO NOT restrain person! NEVER put anything in a person’s mouth!

9. Programs and Services
 Support Research in Epilepsy
 Advocacy for Improved Quality of Life
 Educate clients on how to navigate healthcare system
to obtain timely diagnosis and treatment
 Provide counseling and support to clients experiencing
workplace discrimination
 Summerfest Camp
 An inclusive summer camp for kids aged 6 - 15
 OBCL Epilepsy Scholarship Awards
 supporting youth achieve post secondary education
 Information and Awareness

10. Our Funding
Epilepsy Ontario does not receive any
government funding. We rely on the
generosity of our donors and supporters,
people just like you!

11. How can you help?
 Open up the dialogue about epilepsy
 Volunteer with Epilepsy Ontario
 Host an Event
 Join us for Purple Day – “Thumbs Up” events
 Join our Running/Walking team – Scotiabank
Waterfront Marathon – October 20 2013
 Subscribe to our e-newsletter email contact info
to info@epilepsyontario.org

12. Like more info?
Contact us at:
3100 Steeles Avenue West
Suite 803
Markham Ontario
www.epilepsyontario.org
info@epilepsyontario.org
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