Epilepsy Awareness with Jason Epstein

NSSGA Podcast

Welcome back to another impactful episode of Safety Shorts, where Libby welcomes Jason Epstein, NSSGA's Director of Membership, to delve into the significance of Epilepsy Awareness Month and explore Jason's own personal journey living with epilepsy. In this engaging conversation, they discuss the importance of dispelling myths about epilepsy, offer practical tips for assisting someone having a seizure, and highlight the broader impact of raising awareness about this neurological condition. As you listen in today, you are encouraged to remember that your knowledge can make a difference in someone's life, so stay informed, stay safe, and help raise awareness during Epilepsy Awareness Month.

Episode Highlights:

• The significance of Epilepsy Awareness Month and its impact on millions of lives

• Jason's personal journey with epilepsy and his dedication to raising awareness

• Practical steps for assisting someone having a seizure

• Dispelling common myths about epilepsy

• The story behind the creation of the Epilepsy Alliance for Young Adults

• The importance of spreading knowledge about epilepsy for a safer world

Toolbox Talk Discussion Questions:

• In this episode, Jason shares some things everyone can know about epilepsy as well as some common myths about the disorder. Have you ever heard any of these myths?

• After listening to this episode, do you feel like you have the information necessary to assist someone experiencing a seizure?

• Does anyone have a story about a time where they witnessed a seizure?

Quotes:

• "I was diagnosed with epilepsy when I was eight years old. I was bullied by other students, treated differently by school administrators and teachers. I felt compelled to educate others so kids today wouldn't go through what I did."

• "Everyone has a safety story; you don't have to be a safety health professional to have a safety story."

• "You never know when someone will have a seizure, and it's good to know what to do. The more people know, the safer we all are."

• "Dispelling myths about people swallowing their tongue or putting something between their teeth is crucial."

• "You took it into your hands to do something you are passionate about, to help other people, and make the world a safer place."

• "From 2010 until this year, I founded and ran the Epilepsy Alliance for Young Adults, a local support group in the DC area that held small local events for those with the disorder and promoted epilepsy education."

• "Never put anything in their mouth and never hold them down. Time the seizure and remain calm. Stay with this person until their seizure has ended and they've regained consciousness."

Links:

National Stone, Sand & Gravel Association website

National Epilepsy Awareness Month

Epilepsy Alliance for Young Adults