If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with epilepsy, you probably have many questions and concerns. Epilepsy Durham Region is here to help you. We offer support and information for people living with epilepsy, their family, caregivers and friends. We are committed to responding to your needs, whether you are living with epilepsy yourself or your life has been touched in some way by this invisible disorder. We offer the following programmes:

Thinking About Epilepsy
The focus of this innovative new programme is to dispel myths, dissolve barriers, teach first response protocol for all types of seizures and to ensure that a safe environment for people living with epilepsy is provided by our community. The greater goal is to promote inclusion, tolerance and acceptance of individuals touched by this disorder and to positively impact attitudes.

This in-service educational programme can be delivered to service providers, educators, students, and employers. "Thinking About Epilepsy" will elevate the quality of life for many residents in Durham Region. Imagine a society without fear, stigma and misunderstanding. Education can make this a reality.

Living Well with Epilepsy : A Parents’ Forum
Having epilepsy or caring for someone who does can be very challenging. Sometimes the practical problems of daily living - from insurance, to jobs, to medical care - can seem overwhelming. At other times, it helps just to talk to people who understand what its like to live with epilepsy. This newly launched programme offers families and care givers an opportunity to share challenges and successes with one another.

Peer-to-Peer Network
"I wish I could talk with someone”

A diagnosis of epilepsy or a seizure disorder can be a life-altering experience. Speaking with someone else with a similar life experience can be both comforting and insightful.

Our members draw upon their own experiences to offer encouragement, compassion and helpful information. Call our office at 905-571-2099 Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Think you can help?
Are you living with epilepsy, perhaps a family member or sibling? Consider becoming a peer support volunteer or making a donation to help us continue delivering these important support services.
Volunteer Application Form

Epilepsy Ambassadors
Just think of the difference you can make by becoming an Ambassador. Volunteers and staff are committed to heightening public awareness. With opportunities to suit everyone, here are just a few of the ways you can become involved:

Please click here for more information about becoming an ambassador.

Employment Support
Most people return to work without any problems after their diagnosis. If you are uncertain, and your feel comfortable, talk to your human resources department. Some employers provide an employee assistance programme which can offer support in various ways to incorporate accommodation if required.

Getting and keeping a job can sometimes be challenging for a person. Employment-related workshops and support are available. If you experience employment issues, you can protect yourself from employment discrimination by learning about your rights. Your Rights at Work - Ontario Ministry of Labour
Corporate In-Service Request Form

Information and Education
Epilepsy can be difficult to understanding and coping can be stressful. Being informed about epilepsy is key to being able to live optimally with this invisible disability. It helps to have someone you can talk to and trust for reliable information. Our resource services are available to individuals with epilepsy, their families, the general public and healthcare professionals. Our staff takes the time to answer your questions in clear understandable terms and assists with research for the information you need about:

• Seizures types
• Treatment available
• Clinical trials
• Coping with epilepsy
• Emotional support services
• Community resources

Our services are available Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Our Epilepsy Resource Centre contains a lending library of books, videos and resource materials; our newsletters provide up-to-date information; and our Lecture Series address topics of interest with expert guest speakers.

Support for Families
EDR is committed to helping families find and use all community services available to them. We know that the most effective support often comes from peers – other parents and families in similar situations. We will help to facilitate group discussions and provide one-on-one coaching for families. We are here to help bridge the gap between diagnosis, treatment, and every day living.

Epilepsy Resource Centre
The Epilepsy Resource Centre contains pamphlets, videos, books and articles covering a wide variety of topics and concerns. Our web site, www.epilepsydurham.com, also acts as a powerful resource for those who are unable to visit our Resource Centre.

Lectures Series
Our free Lecture Series offers informative talks on requested topics by experts in the field. These discussions are open to members and non-members alike, as well as family members, support workers, and the general public.

Other Community Resources:
If we don’t have the support that you are looking for, we can help you locate it in your community. Please contact our office for additional community services available in your community.

Call our office at 905-571-2099 Monday to Friday 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.