Epilepsy will affect 1 in 26 Americans at some point in their lives, and an estimated one-third of epilepsy-related deaths are due to SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy). With awareness, preventative measures can be taken. Help CHF provide grants for trained seizure response dogs, allowing patients with epilepsy and their families the comfort of knowing their health will be monitored at all times, and the possibility of preventing SUDEP. CHF has currently provided 136 grants.
SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) is thought to cause over one third of deaths in children diagnosed with epilepsy. Despite being so common, most families, friends and teachers are not aware of the very real possibility of death for individuals living with epilepsy; thus, simple preventative measures are not taken. Due to the prevalence of epilepsy in the United States, the potential for SUDEP coupled with insufficient knowledge about its prevention affects us all.
Providing grants for seizure response dogs for individuals living with epilepsy can help to prevent SUDEP. The dogs can alert others and summon help in the event of a seizure, secure a safe space for the individual suffering a seizure, rouse an unconscious individual, and carry vital information and medicine. These dogs will even often alert the individual, family members, and/or teachers before the onset of a seizure, allowing them to quickly respond to potentially life-threatening situations.
This particular project will provide seizure-response dogs for people living with epilepsy, greatly increasing their chances of surviving life-threatening episodes that may arise. This project will also raise awareness about SUDEP to encourage further support of individuals living with epilepsy, their families, and their communities.
