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This article is composed of 10 celebs who have or have had epilepsy and 5 figures that deserve recognition today.
It can be very uplifting to know that people living with epilepsy have been among the most highly influential figures in history. It sends a signal that no, epilepsy is not necessarily the end of all dreams. A person can have epilepsy AND be great.
That said...there's a bigger conversation to be had here.
10 Celebrities With EpilepsY
In no particular order.
1. Cameron Boyce
As someone on the Board of the foundation started after his death, this one really stands out in my heart. Cameron was beloved for his roles in Disney Channel's "Jessie" and the "Descendants" series, Boyce tragically passed away in 2019 at the age of 20 due to SUDEP - Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy. His family is fighting to create better awareness and understanding of the condition.
Learn about The Cameron Boyce Foundation HERE
2. Neil Young
The legendary musician has been open about his experiences with epilepsy, which began in the 1960s. It can be encouraging to know that such a superstar made it work.
3. Lil Wayne
The Grammy-winning rapper has publicly discussed his epilepsy diagnosis and the challenges he faces managing the condition, including multiple seizures.
4. Danny Glover
The acclaimed actor experienced epileptic seizures for a period during his teen years. He's discussed how it affected him then, but fortunately he appears to have to grown out of it.
5. Hugo Weaving
Known for roles in "The Matrix" and "The Lord of the Rings," Weaving was diagnosed with epilepsy in his teens and has discussed its impact on his life and career choices.
6. Prince
The iconic musician revealed that he had epilepsy as a child and that his early experiences with the condition influenced his artistry, and his artistry musical legend.
7. Susan Boyle
The Scottish singer, who gained fame on "Britain's Got Talent," has spoken about her childhood experiences with epilepsy and how it affected her upbringing.
8. Rick Harrison
The star of the reality TV show "Pawn Stars" has been open about his childhood battle with epilepsy, which he credits with fostering his love of reading and history.
9. Chanda Gunn
Chanda Gunn Don't forget athletics! An American ice hockey player and Olympic bronze medalist, Gunn has been an advocate for epilepsy awareness after being diagnosed with the condition during her youth. Chanda stands out from the rest by also being very active in the community. She’s a key part of Epilepsy Foundation of New England! A very successful organization. She belongs in both lists!
10. Florence ‘FloJo’ Griffith Joyner
The American track and field athlete, known as "Flo-Jo," was an Olympic gold medalist and world-record holder. She was diagnosed with epilepsy, and her sudden death in 1998 was attributed to an epileptic seizure.
AMAZING!!!
It's great to know that there are people who have had enormous success despite having a medical condition, but we need to have a bigger conversation...
Most of us are not going to be celebrities, nor should life's journey be a chase for public approval. Most people are not asking to be legends in art, music and sport.
The real question behind all of this is 'Am I going to lead a good life?'
I'd like to ask that we honor the people above for their achievements. They matter. That said, I also want to look forward.
I want to hear more often from people who are living meaningful lives regardless of their epilepsy. These people show us that a more important goal is out there - feeling good about who we are, and participation in something good.
5 Heroes Today
In no particular order.
1. Paul St. Pierre
Paul (center) lives with epilepsy and is the inspiration behind Paul's Law (Seizure Awareness and Preparedness Act), a current bill presented to the U.S. Congress by Senator Corey Booker to require teachers to learn seizure first aid across the country. The law would provide schools with funding to do so. Learn more about his organization at Pauls Purple Warriors.
Visit: Pauls Purple Warriors HERE
2. Landis Wiedner
Landis has epilepsy. She also has a great sense of humor. She has one of the most successful (if not the most successful) podcasts on the subject - 'What The EF'. She always has great guests living with seizures. Check it out - What the EF Podcast.
Listen to What the EF Podcast HERE
3. Anzli McNew
Anzli is a young performer with photosensitive epilepsy. She co-founded EpiArts Alliance, which aims to find better ways to make performance spaces safer for photosensitive actors and viewers. They're a great group always welcoming of new ideas from entertainment professionals to one day create a standard we can all agree to.
Learn about EpiArts Alliance HERE
4. Lowell G. Evans
I love Lowell! Lowell wrote a book called 'The Village' about his experience fighting back against an unlawful firing due to his diagnosis. He's always so upbeat and spends his time lifting up others living with the condition. Today, he is the Regional Director at Epilepsy Foundation Virginia. He's a great example of the power storytelling has to improve the perspectives and expectations of others on the same path.
Get Lowells Book ‘The Village’ HERE
5. Tim Ulmer
Tim runs a growing Youtube channel called 'Epilepsy Gangster' where he interviews people with epilepsy and imagines Epilepsy as a gangster who takes away people's plans for their future. Tim is out there using his diagnosis to inspire awareness. He gets great guests for his interviews and I'd love to see it take off.
Watch Epilepsy Gangster HERE
There are so many more. I want people living with epilepsy to take note that the path should not be the pursuit of public validation we get taught is ideal. The path in life is to figure out what we can do for others, big or small. It leads us to feel better about ourselves, and where possible, that can be a great first step.
EXCITING NEWS!
We made the FULL Under the Lights film, with huge stars and big power, we will deliver the most impactful moment for epilepsy awareness in HISTORY.
You can watch the short here that started it all Here.
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