Epilepsy conference returns

The Cork branch of Epilepsy Ireland is set to welcome the national conference to the county for the first time since 2003.

Taking place on 28 September, the one-day conference will feature presentations and information by medical experts and people with epilepsy working in and researching the neurological condition.

The conference will feature a strong Cork contingent with Consultant Neurologist at CUH, Dr Daniel Costello, speaking on developments on the treatment of epilepsy. The conference will also feature Paediatric Neuropsychologist at UCC, Dr Chris McCusker, who will be hosting a discussion for families with children with epilepsy on how best to balance the implications of epilepsy with family life.

With 40,000 people with epilepsy across the country, the national conference is an opportunity for people with epilepsy, their families and the wider community to learn more about the condition, according to Epilepsy Ireland’s Cork-based Community Resource Officer, Niamh Jones.

Speaking at the conference launch this week at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Little Island, Ms Jones said: “Epilepsy is a very common neurological condition and can present itself in very different forms from person to person. In the majority of cases, seizures can be managed through medication however other cases can be more complex.”

Epilepsy Ireland’s Director of Services, Tara Smith said: “Epilepsy is an often misunderstood and stigmatised condition be it in the playground or in the workplace.

“It can unfortunately lead to the social and educational isolation of a person who has been diagnosed and oftentimes, this is due to a lack of understanding of the condition by employers, schools or the wider community.”

For further information on Epilepsy Ireland’s national conference or to book a place, visit epilepsy.ie.