Today is SUDEP Action Day, one of the most important days in our annual calendar as we raise awareness of Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) across Ireland.
The day is an opportunity to remember loved ones who have died due to SUDEP and other epilepsy-related deaths, while also helping to educate people with epilepsy, their families and carers about measures which may help reduce the risk of SUDEP.
As part of SUDEP Action Day 2026, we have signposted a range of information and resources to help you learn more about SUDEP, understand ways to reduce risk, and hear from families who have been personally affected by epilepsy-related deaths.
- Learning about SUDEP is one of the most important actions people with epilepsy and their families can take.
We encourage everyone affected by epilepsy to learn more about SUDEP, the risk factors associated with it, and the practical steps that may help reduce risk. Visit the SUDEP section of our website for more information. - We are also encouraging bereaved families to consider contributing to the Epilepsy Deaths Register for Ireland.
When the time is right, sharing information about the life and death of a loved one who had epilepsy may help researchers gain important insights into epilepsy-related deaths, including SUDEP. This information could help inform future research and contribute to efforts to prevent deaths in the future. Visit the Epilepsy Deaths Register for Ireland website to learn more. -
Families affected by SUDEP have once again shared their stories to mark SUDEP Action Day.
These powerful accounts highlight the devastating impact that SUDEP can have on families and underline the importance of open conversations about risk, awareness and prevention. This year, Angela has shared the story of the loss of her daughter Zara due to SUDEP and Brittany has shared the story of her husband Dann’s passing due to SUDEP. You can read their stories via the buttons below
Zara Murphy - Ar dheis Dé go raibh a hanam.
While SUDEP can be difficult to talk about, increasing awareness and ensuring that people have access to accurate information remains an essential part of reducing risk and preventing future deaths.
We would like to thank everyone who has supported SUDEP Action Day and all those who continue to help raise awareness of this important issue. Through improved awareness, education, research and communication, we hope to see fewer families experience the heartbreak of losing a loved one to SUDEP or another epilepsy-related death. Epilepsy Ireland continues to campaign for the development of a national strategy to reduce epilepsy-related deaths in Ireland and we expect there will be further developments in this area before the end of the year. In the meantime, you can learn more about this campaign by visiting the ‘Advocacy’ section of our website.
Finally, our thoughts are with all those who have lost a loved one due to SUDEP or an epilepsy-related death. Today, we remember those who have died and all the the families and friends they have left behind.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a n-anamacha.
If you need information or support regarding your own epilepsy or that of a loved one, please do not hesitate to contact your local Community Resource Officer. You can find their details by visiting the 'Our Local Services' section of our website.