New Chair In Epilepsy Research
from the University of Toronto
Alumni John and Margaret Bahen have donated $2 million to establish the Michael Bahen Chair in Epilepsy Research at the University of Toronto in memory of their son who had epilepsy and passed away at the age of 24.
Focusing on generating new insights into the causes and effects of the disorder, the chair will attempt to discover new methods of treatment and work to de-stigmatize the perception of epilepsy in society. The first incumbent is Dr. W. McIntyre (Mac) Burnham, a professor of pharmacology whose previous research studied the causes of epileptic seizures and how they affect the brain.
Epilepsy affects between 1% and 2% of the Canadian population. The social stigma that has long surrounded this disorder has prevented many people from seeking treatment.
Dr. Arnie Aberman, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Toronto, said "Epilepsy is a disorder that has traditionally been misunderstood. This outstanding gift, by advancing research in the field, will contribute to our understanding of this complex disorder."
The Bahen family are long-time U of T supporters. Together with Joey Tanenbaum, they made the first campaign gift to the Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering to create two new chairs in civil engineering. John Bahen also co-chairs engineering's fundraising activities. Margaret Bahen holds a diploma from U of T's Department of Occupational Therapy.
Contact
Amelia Canto Ellis
Executive Director of Development, and
Associate University Campaign Director, Faculty of Medicine
416-946-3559
e-mail: canto.ellis@utoronto.ca
Harold Heft
Writer, Campaign Communications
416-978-5930
e-mail: harold.heft@utoronto.ca
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