Epilepsy Association of Calgary

10/23/2026

Halloween can be triggering individuals living with seizure disorders. As parents and community members, we can make small differences that can have significant positive impacts on the Halloween experience.

Parents:

- Check in with your kids. Talk about scary content they may encounter and offer safe spaces to relax and regroup.

- Choose costumes that allow clear vision and easy breathing. Layer enough to stay warm but not overheat. Body temperature can trigger seizures for some people.

- Keep to your routine as much as possible. Take medications at their consistent time.

- Take rest breaks and check in with your child to see if they’re overtired or overstimulated.

Community Members:

Be considerate when decorating.

- Roughly 3% of people with epilepsy are photosensitive but bright or flashing lights can overwhelm many, triggering seizures.

- Test your decorations ahead of time and replace batteries or bulbs that are rapidly flickering.

- The SPOOK is exhilarating. Add warning/caution signs for visitors. *Half your visitors are likely too young to be reading yet*

10/21/2026

Today is SUDEP Action Day.

Discussing SUDEP can be an uncomfortable or scary conversation, but one that is important to have.

Dr. Donner was a recent panelist on the topic of SUDEP at the recent Canadian Epilepsy Alliance conference.

Spread awareness and start the conversation.

This conversation focuses on SUDEP Action Day, emphasizing the impo...

10/15/2026

Peer support is at the heart of ESA’s programming.

Beyond peer support groups and peer mentorship, our community develop deep relationships through our group programs and in-person social events.

In these spaces, individuals are seen, valued and accepted as they are with a true understanding of the shared experience of living with epilepsy. We invite in our Caregivers to connect in their shared role as the support their loved ones.

Today we recognize Global Peer Support Celebration Day.

Thank you to everyone who logs on, picks up the phone, or leaves a message, as you empower one another. 💜

10/12/2026

👤 Person Living with Epilepsy vs. Epileptic

A small semantic difference but the implication can be big.

Person Living with Epilepsy
Puts the person first and recognizes that epilepsy is only one part of who they are.

Epileptic
A label that defines a person by their condition.

Do you live with epilepsy? Consider how you identify with each of these terms. Use the opportunity to discuss with those in your network how the language impacts you. It is okay to identify either way, or to have no preference. Your condition is yours to own as you choose.

10/09/2026

Thanksgiving is one of those special days that bring together family and friends. Full of traditions and temptations.

Some epilepsy considerations for this weekend:

1. Sticking to a prescribed diet.
2. Alcohol or caffeine intake if these are seizure triggers for you.
3. Ensuring enough rest in what can be a busy weekend.
4. Have a plan to manage stress or prevent becoming overwhelmed.
5. Get enough rest.

What are some of your favourite Thanksgiving traditions?

10/02/2026

Summer is officially over and fall programs are in full swing here at ESA!

If you missed the current UPLIFT and PACES cohorts, talk to us about getting on the list to be the first to learn about our winter session.

Memory feeling off? We have space in the ongoing HOBSCOTCH program.

Keep your eyes out for information about upcoming social events!

And of course, we invite everyone to the monthly adult and caregiver support groups!!

09/30/2026

Today our offices are closed in honour of Truth and Reconciliation. We take this time to reflect on the truths of Canada's history, honour Survivors, their families, and communities, and recognize the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.

09/28/2026

Nothing Spooky Here!

Just friends old and new coming together for connection, support, and a place to share.

Adults Support Group
Tuesday, October 6
12:00-1:00pm

Caregiver Support Group
Wednesday, October 7

Email us for registration: [email protected]

09/24/2026

"You're missing practice again!?" "Didn't you study?" "Move faster!"

Youth settling in to school and extracurricular activities may hear these and other statements that come from a lack of understanding about daily impacts of living with epilepsy. They may feel emotionally or physically sidelined by teachers and coaches who don't feel confident responding to a seizure.

Break the stigma and build confidence with EPILEPSY 101.

Available for groups of any size. Book your session today.

[email protected]

09/22/2026

How are you really doing?
Sometimes changes in our mental health can be subtle. You may notice:
• Feeling overwhelmed more often than usual
• Increased worry or anxiety
• Changes in sleep or appetite
• Loss of interest in activities you once enjoyed
• Difficulty concentrating or coping with daily responsibilities
• Feeling isolated or withdrawing from others
If these signs sound familiar for you or someone you care about, know that support is available.
At Epilepsy Southern Alberta, we offer resources, individual support, and group programs designed to help people manage symptoms of anxiety and depression while building coping skills and connections with others.
You don't have to navigate it alone.
📧 Connect with us at [email protected] to learn more about our supports and programs.