Helping Other People with Epilepsy (H.O.P.E.)
Overview
H.O.P.E. is a national, professionally developed epilepsy education program for general audiences including civic clubs such as Kiwanis or Rotary, parent's groups, women's groups, or any other group that invites speakers to their meetings.
The Speakers
Individuals with epilepsy frequently find that people respond incorrectly to their seizures, make insensitive comments, or show little understanding of epilepsy in general. Through the H.O.P.E. program, individuals with epilepsy and their family members are active in correcting those misconceptions. H.O.P.E. mentors undergo rigorous training on epilepsy and presentation skills.
The Presentation
H.O.P.E. presentations are informative, with professionally created scripts and data, yet engaging, with mentors sharing their personal experience of epilepsy. The specific material presented varies, but usually consists of an overview of epilepsy and seizure types.
Why Not?
H.O.P.E. presentations can be modified to fit your group’s needs with regard to presentation length and focus. We also have lots of trained speakers and so can be flexible with the time and date of presentation. Most importantly, H.O.P.E. presentations are free. Audiences appreciate the opportunity to learn more about epilepsy and find the information given and experiences shared to be fascinating.
A Range of Speakers to Meet Your Needs
The Epilepsy Foundation of Kentuckiana has 10 trained H.O.P.E. mentors available to make presentations about epilepsy and seizures to the general public. All mentors have completed a half-day training session, making them certified presenters.
While all mentors are trained to make presentations using professionally developed scripts and slides, they incorporate their own experience with epilepsy into the presentation, making it interesting and informative. Each mentor brings a unique story to their audience about living with epilepsy. Contact the Foundation 502.637.4440 or 866.275.1078 to schedule a presentation for your group.
For more information or to schedule a HOPE presentation for your club or organization, please contact Beth Blakeley, Director of Education, at bblakeley@efky.org or 502.637.4440 or toll free 866.275.1078.
