Press Release: Epilepsy Association of Utah Announces “Seizure Smart” Education Conference

For Immediate Release

Epilepsy Association of Utah Announces 

“Seizure Smart” Education Conference

SALT LAKE CITY – Monday, May 19, 2014 

The Epilepsy Association of Utah (EAU) announces its annual “Get Seizure Smart!” Epilepsy Education Conference, presenting the latest in epilepsy science and treatment options, as well as tools and resources for those affected by epilepsy. The “Seizure Smart” conference will be held Saturday, June 7, 2014 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Little America Hotel, 500 South Main Street, Salt Lake City. Individuals with epilepsy, families of those affected, medical personnel, educators, and first responders, as well as the general public, are invited to attend.

Dr. Ian Miller, pediatric neurologist at Miami Children’s Hospital, international expert in treating Dravet syndrome and member of the Dravet Syndrome Foundation’s Professional Advisory Board, will be the keynote speaker and special guest. He is scheduled to discuss the discovery of genetics in epilepsy and the push for research into CBD-based treatment options.

The conference will feature breakout sessions with renowned experts presenting on topics including the complexities of epilepsy, genetics of epilepsy, latest treatment options, alternative therapies, coping and advocacy, managing behaviors and sibling behaviors, mental health, trusts and living wills and patient resources. Several organizations and vendors will be in attendance with tables providing helpful information, a few of which include the Division of Services for People with Disabilities, Hope 4 Children With Epilepsy, Utah Kids, Utah Parent Center, Autism Council of Utah and Brain Balance Centers.

With the recent passage of HB105 “Charlee’s Law” allowing for the possession of high-CBD/low-THC cannabis oil for the treatment of intractable epilepsy in adults and children, the EAU will present the specifics of the new Hemp Extract Registration Program and the safe and effective use of the therapy. Jennifer May, co-founder of Hope 4 Children With Epilepsy, the EAU’s parent advocacy group who lobbied in favor of the bill, will be walking patients through the details of the law and the processes required to gain access to approved extracts for treatment. As the leading provider of high-CBD/low-THC cannabis oil, Realm of Caring’s own Heather Jackson will present information about the oil as a treatment for intractable epilepsy. Realm of Caring is a non-profit organization in Colorado who oversees the cultivation of the Charlotte’s Web plant and its processing and distribution as Alepsia, a non-psychoactive extract infused in oil.

“Our goal with the Seizure Smart Epilepsy Conference is to provide those affected by epilepsy with the tools needed to educate themselves, as well as those around them, and obtain the best treatments possible, whether they be mainstream or alternative,” said April Sintz, EAU Conference Chairperson and H4CE leadership member. “We want to empower people by giving them choices and resources that are available to all of us here in the state of Utah,” Sintz stated.

Cost for the conference is $30 for the public ($15 for EAU members) if registered in advance; an additional $10 charge will apply for those registering at the door. A light breakfast, a catered lunch, and a “loot bag” will be provided for each attendee. Registration is open on the EAU website at http://epilepsyut.org/conference2014.html.

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ABOUT THE EPILEPSY ASSOCIATION OF UTAH 

Founded in 1973, the Epilepsy Association of Utah is a 501(c)(3) charity dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for all individuals living with epilepsy and seizure disorders. One in 26 people will develop epilepsy at some time in their lives, totaling over 100,000 people in Utah alone. Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder in the US, after migraine, stroke and Alzheimer’s. The Epilepsy Association of Utah offers a public education program, statewide support groups, personal and professional advocacy, college scholarships, art exhibits, educational conferences, summer camp and more. Visit http://epilepsyut.org for additional information. 

Media Contact: Jennifer Hardy May 

Email: info@epilepsyut.org 

Website: www.epilepsyut.org