By Deron Hamel
If you have an idea for a superhero comic book or graphic novel focused on raising epilepsy awareness, Epilepsy Ontario wants to hear it.
The organization plans to launch a graphic novel or comic book about an epilepsy superhero, and any Ontario resident with an original, unpublished idea is welcome to submit their concept for consideration.
The aim of the project is to create a story highlighting the strength, courage and impact of people living with epilepsy in comic-book form, to help raise awareness and break down stigma associated with seizure disorders.
Suggestions for story themes include raising awareness, supporting others or breaking down stigma, but all ideas are welcome.
For too long, epilepsy has been a condition that’s in the shadows, and this project aims to help people understand its prevalence, says Trevor Gordon, Epilepsy Ontario’s social media co-ordinator.
Trevor underscores that the organization is looking for ideas – not completed scripts – and that people making submissions do not need previous writing experience.
“What I like about this campaign is it’s open to everyone,” he tells Voices of Epilepsy. “Of course, it would be great if people who have epilepsy or who have been touched by epilepsy make submissions, but this campaign is open to everyone, and no writing experience is necessary.”
Here is information about submission guidelines and rules:
– Submit a story idea, not a full script or completed story
– Submissions are open to every Ontario resident
– Ideas must be original and never published or submitted elsewhere
– All submissions become the property of Epilepsy Ontario, but you will be credited for your concept
The project is multi-phased, and Phase 1 focuses on collecting story-idea submissions and creating a storyline. Trevor says submitted ideas and concepts may be combined or “massaged” to create the final storyline. The next phases will involve creating a script and bringing artists into the project.
Once completed, Trevor says the comic book or graphic novel will be about more than superheroes with special powers – it will be about shining a light on the real-life champions living among us.
“Epilepsy heroes aren’t just in the stories; they’re in our neighbourhoods, classrooms, families – for too long, epilepsy has been invisible, but this project makes it not just visible but now unforgettable,” he says.
If you have an idea you would like to submit, please click here and fill out the submission form.
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd074tSqgetHOgUeM8fv7ClzOeP342aZSJMSKTCDbo4um0gnQ/viewform
