At Epilepsy Ireland, we know and understand how the diagnosis of epilepsy can be a shock and may present challenges for parents and guardians when their child is diagnosed.
In certain cases, it can be a lengthy journey to obtaining the diagnosis, and some parents are often surprised when they hear the word ‘epilepsy’ – as there may be no known reason behind the diagnosis. We often discover that parents/guardians may have inherited misconceptions about epilepsy and how the diagnosis will affect their child, for example, that their child won’t be able to take part in activities that other children take part in. The reality is that in most cases, with the correct treatment and appropriate plans / additional considerations in place, the child will be able to participate alongside their peers.
Due to pressure on epilepsy services across the country, oftentimes medical teams may not have the opportunity to have in-depth discussions with parents about the diagnosis and its’ potential implications. This is why Epilepsy Ireland, working with epilepsy healthcare professionals, began to deliver what we call “Joint Epilepsy Education Sessions” for adults with epilepsy some years ago. In 2023 and based on feedback received, a session for parents of children diagnosed with epilepsy was developed and two sessions were delivered with great interest in both. We call this the Junior Joint Epilepsy Education Session.
These events see a member of our Community Resource Officer team work alongside a Epilepsy Nurse Specialist to deliver a wide range of information about living with the condition day to day and how to support your child on their journey with epilepsy. This includes key topics such as:
- Diagnosis
- Treatment / Medications
- Seizure types and response
- Triggers and lifestyle
- Supports in your community
The aim of the event is to provide parents and guardians with as much information as possible as they begin their journey of supporting their child in living with the condition, as well as letting them know from the outset about the supports that are available that can help aid them on their individual journeys.
This event will be facilitated by Epilepsy Ireland Community Resource Officer, Pam O'Brien, and Paediatric Epilepsy Nurse, Aisling McDevitt from Cork University Hospital. Alongside discussing the topics above, there will also be time as part of the event for Questions and Answers.
If you are a parent/guardian of a newly diagnosed child, we would encourage you to come and join us for this online event so you can learn more about the condition, alongside others who are in a similar situation to you.
If you have any questions about this event, please contact Pam by emailing pobrien@epilepsy.ie. Otherwise, please see details below on how to register for this event.
We look forward to welcoming you on the morning and helping support you as you begin your journey with epilepsy.
WHO?
This event is for parents/guardians with children newly diagnosed with epilepsy.
WHEN?
Monday 13th May 2024, 10:00am to 12:00pm
WHERE?
Online, via Zoom!
REGISTRATION?
To register for this event, please fill out the Zoom registration link on the button below. Pre-registration is essential as in order to best facilitate this event, places are limited so do not delay in getting in touch if you feel this event would be of benefit to you or someone you know.
If you have any questions about this event, please email Pam on pobrien@epilepsy.ie with the subject line "Education Session".
Please note..
If you are a parent/guardian of a child newly diagnosed with epilepsy and need any information or support regarding the condition, you do not have to wait for this event to happen - please do not hesitate to get in touch with your local Community Resource Officer. You can find their details by visiting the 'Our Local Services' section of our website.