United for Vada – Walking for Awareness, Hope, and Community
In October 2024, our vibrant six-year-old daughter, Vada, was diagnosed with a severe form of epilepsy and epileptic encephalopathy. Since then, our family has been navigating a journey filled with testing, hospital stays, and medication trial and errors. Epilepsy has changed our lives, but it has also opened our eyes to the importance of community, support, and advocacy.
We are walking to support Vada, raise awareness about epilepsy, and stand in solidarity with the 1 in 26 people who will be diagnosed in their lifetime. We are also raising funds for the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota (EFMN), an organization that has provided our family with invaluable support and resources.
When Vada was first diagnosed, EFMN came to her kindergarten classroom to educate her classmates about epilepsy and how they can help when she has a seizure at school. That simple act of awareness created a more inclusive and supportive space for her from the beginning.
They also host social events where Vada can connect with other kids living with epilepsy - helping her build friendships and know she’s not alone. Their summer camps, staffed with on-site nurses, give kids like Vada the chance to enjoy the fun and freedom of camp in a safe environment.
As parents, we’ve found the support groups that EFMN facilitates to be helpful. They have allowed us to ask questions, share our experiences, and connect with other families who understand the challenges of navigating epilepsy.
We’re grateful for the support EFMN has given us this year, and we’re happy to give back and help support the incredible work they do for families like ours. Join us as we walk for Vada and everyone impacted by epilepsy. Together we can make a difference - one step at a time.
