FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Epilepsy Organizations Unite to Support Trans and Nonbinary Individuals with Epilepsy During Pride Month
Concord, ON – June 29, 2023 – Epilepsy Ontario, Epilepsy Ottawa and Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario are proud to announce a new collaboration aimed at addressing the unique healthcare challenges faced by trans and nonbinary people living with epilepsy. In celebration of Pride Month, the organizations have jointly developed the Epilepsy, Hormones, & Reproductive Health strategy sheet, a comprehensive resource designed to empower and support this underserved community.
Living with epilepsy is a complex journey, encompassing medical, social, and emotional challenges. Transgender and non-binary people, who already navigate additional hurdles and discrimination in their daily lives, often encounter distinctive barriers when seeking proper care and support for epilepsy. Recognizing the urgent need for specialized resources, Epilepsy Ontario, Epilepsy Ottawa and Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario joined forces to fill this crucial gap.
The Epilepsy, Hormones, & Reproductive Health Spark sheet serves as a vital tool to navigate the intricate relationship between anti-seizure meds, gender-affirming care, hormone therapies, and other crucial aspects of reproductive health. By addressing these unique concerns head-on, this collaborative effort aims to foster inclusivity, improve health outcomes, and enhance overall well-being.
The Epilepsy, Hormones, & Reproductive Health strategy sheet is available for free download on the websites of Epilepsy Ontario, Epilepsy Ottawa and Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario ensuring accessibility and widespread availability. A French version will be available soon. Through this effort, the organizations aim to advocate for a more inclusive healthcare system and inspire other organizations to follow suit.
Click here to view the Epilepsy, Hormones, & Reproductive Spark Sheet,
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Contact:
Trevor Gordon
Epilepsy Ontario
[email protected]
Background: One in 100 people in Canada have epilepsy, 65 million worldwide. It is one of the most common neurological conditions, second only to migraines. Rampant misinformation about epilepsy leads to bullying at schools, blatant discrimination in the workplace and social marginalization. Many people with epilepsy hide their medical condition for fear that revealing their epilepsy will cause them to lose their job or friends. Amidst this silence, the myths about seizure disorders continue unchallenged and this untenable situation remains. Epilepsy Ontario enhances the lives of people who are affected by epilepsy and seizure disorders by providing a network of services that educate, support and build community awareness.
