1 in 25 Australians are diagnosed with epilepsy in their lifetime.
As the second most common neurological condition, after dementia, epilepsy is more prevalent than Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, motor neurone disease and cerebral palsy.
Yet it isn't spoken about nearly as much.
At the Epilepsy Foundation, we use evidence-based practice to help people living with epilepsy feel safe, supported, and connected. We do this by offering information, support services and education and training to individuals and families impacted by
the condition.
Our work also funds vital research and raises awareness to reduce the stigma and isolation that so often comes with epilepsy.
Epilepsy does not discriminate. It can impact anyone at anytime. And everyone's journey is different.
That includes the AFL footy legends supporting our cause.
Neil Balme
Former Richmond Tigers footy legend and two-time premiership winner Neil Balme was diagnosed with epilepsy in 2020. This came as a big shock to his family due to there being no known history of epilepsy.
Before experiencing his first seizure, which landed him in hospital, Neil had limited understanding of what epilepsy was. He considers himself to be one of the “lucky ones” as his epilepsy has not restricted him from engaging in everyday life activities, such as driving, like it does so many.
Today, Neil's medication has his seizures under control and, as an Epilepsy Foundation ambassador, he is eager to share his experience with epilepsy and do what he can to support others living with the condition.
Brett Ratten
Former Carlton Blues footy legend, Brett Ratten's daughter, Tilly, was diagnosed with right frontal lobe epilepsy the day he was announced as St Kilda senior coach in 2019.
Tilly would sometimes experience up to 30 seizures a day, and experienced challenges when it came to her education. She would often come into her parents' room in the middle of the night as if sleepwalking, before waking up and not knowing where she was.
Fortunately, Tilly has been able to find the right medication to place her seizures under control. However, Brett and his family know that there are so many other people out there that are still facing challenges associated with epilepsy on a daily basis.
In his time as an ambassador for the Epilepsy Foundation, Brett has been a passionate advocate for generating exposure and understanding around epilepsy.
Heath Hocking
Former Essendon Bombers footy legend, Heath Hocking’s son, Roman, was diagnosed with Infantile Spasms at six months of age.
Roman’s first seizures occurred during COVID lockdown, which only further complicated things for Heath and his wife, Luisa, and often left them feeling isolated and alone.
Roman was placed on a very high dosage of medication. Soon, Roman's seizure activity began to ease. Today, Roman is healthy and a real go-getter with zero fear who makes his parents proud every day.
Epilepsy will always be a part of Heath and his family’s lives, which is why he is committed to raising awareness around the condition as an Epilepsy Foundation ambassador. In recent years, Heath has gone to great lengths to increase exposure of epilepsy, including a 24-hour non-stop walk and travelling 200km non-stop on a treadmill as part of the Walk for Epilepsy campaign.
View our latest newsletter below:
Support the 1 in 25 diagnosed with epilepsy by donating below.
Do you need support with epilepsy?
Get in touch today.
National Epilepsy Support Service
1300 761 487 | support@epilepsysmart.org.au
1800 437 453 or (03) 8809 0655
donations@epilepsyfoundation.org.au
