17 June 2010

Smith Lends Support for National Epilepsy Week

Margaret Smith MSP for Edinburgh West today took part in a photo call in the garden lobby of the Scottish Parliament to raise awareness of National Epilepsy Week. The theme of this year’s week is epilepsy and young people. The idea behind the campaign comes from the results of a survey taken by 250 young people who have epilepsy. The main message being that “having epilepsy doesn’t hold you back from doing what you want in life”. The campaign is focused on educating, supporting and informing people affected by the disorder and in doing so helping them manage how epilepsy affects their lives.

Speaking after the event, Smith said:

“I am grateful to the work Epilepsy Scotland has done in helping with National Epilepsy Week. The fact is, 40,000 people are currently living with the disorder in Scotland and that means 40,000 families are affected. Therefore this campaign is of real importance in helping a great number of people throughout the country.

“This photo call has been one in a long series of events that will help remove any social stigma surrounding epilepsy and, aid many young people who have the disorder or, who are affected by it.

“Through a better understanding of the disorder there should no longer be any fear or confusion surrounding epilepsy and campaigns like National Epilepsy Week are tackling the problem head on.

“Looking forward, I am confident that this campaign will continue with further success and I congratulate all those involved on what they achieved thus far.”