Message from the Chair

More than 36 years ago, musician John Lennon recorded the song Power to the People. This chant-like tune carried a message for the times, possibly for all times. Ultimately, it’s people who have the power to change the human condition. It’s people who influence social change. In the end, it’s people — like you and me — who may make a difference in the way we live as an organized society.

So, while I am proud of the efforts of organizations throughout the world who focus on making life better for people with epilepsy, I am even prouder of the individuals — the people — who act as the voice and muscle behind a movement of change in the way people with epilepsy are perceived and treated in our society.

Yes, the Epilepsy Foundation and its affiliated organizations throughout the country are doing good work in raising public awareness, raising funds for more research, advocating for change within state and federal government and delivering much-needed programs. But without the individual efforts of people, both with and without epilepsy, the Foundation would be simply another ant trying to move a rubber tree plant.

Since becoming involved with the Foundation, I have been impressed with the leaders, staff and volunteers who are working hard to make a difference. But I’ve been even more impressed with the passion and energy of people who have epilepsy and their caregivers. They don’t settle for less than they deserve. They are outspoken and genuine in their efforts to make a better life for themselves and others who experience the same conditions and issues. They are the constant reminder to those of us who do not have epilepsy of why we are involved with this cause. You provide the motivation, inspiration and passion to become more involved.

The Epilepsy Foundation continues to “stand” for everyone with epilepsy in every part of the country and in every situation so that not another moment is lost to seizures. But we don’t — and we cannot — do it alone! Thankfully, many of our constituencies — perhaps even YOU — have risen to the challenge to speak up and out to those who discriminate against people with epilepsy and to those who simply don’t understand epilepsy.

Not everyone who has epilepsy stands up to the challenge, however. Quite frankly, some are simply physically unable to stand. Others are concerned about the reaction they may receive as a result of speaking up. And others still don’t know exactly how or where to direct their energy. Believe me, I do understand.

The Epilepsy Foundation cannot, however, change the world and the way it views epilepsy without your help. The Foundation cannot end the stigma associated with epilepsy without more people with epilepsy standing up and letting the world know they are a productive part of society.

You have the power! You have the power to make a difference, not only in your own life, but in the lives of others by becoming involved in your community or reaching out to your local Epilepsy Foundation affiliate, or by letting others know you have epilepsy and what it means.While I don’t have epilepsy, a number of people with epilepsy have told me what an exhilarating experience it is to talk to others about their condition. They said that their fear melted away when their friends and colleagues reacted far more positively than they had imagined. Of course, there is the occasional example of when someone may have reacted more negatively, but the risk must be worth it when it represents an opportunity for replacing ignorance and fear with understanding and acceptance.

In the end, the power is in you. And the Epilepsy Foundation will do everything it can to stand behind you and offer the programs and services you may need in using your power.

- Steve Sabatini