In April, the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota returned to the Minnesota State Capitol for our first in-person Day at the Capitol since 2019.
Advocates from across the state joined EFMN staff and volunteers to share their experiences with legislators, helping deepen understanding of how epilepsy and seizures shape daily life for Minnesotans.
For many, it was more than a return to the Capitol. It was a return to connection, shared purpose, and the power of showing up together.
Stories at the Center
Day at the Capitol invites advocates of all backgrounds to take part—whether someone is new to advocacy or has years of experience—creating a space where many perspectives come together.
Throughout the day, advocates shared a wide range of lived experiences, including people living with epilepsy, parents, caregivers, and supporters. Together, these voices built a shared understanding that grounded the day in real, everyday life and shaped the conversations that followed.
That sense of shared understanding carried into moving remarks from Senator Jim Abeler and Representative Julie Greene, who spoke about their personal connections to epilepsy and what has shaped their commitment to this work. Their reflections were an important reminder: no one faces epilepsy alone.
From Conversation to Understanding
As the afternoon unfolded, advocates moved into meetings with legislators and their staff, bringing those shared experiences directly into conversation.
Grounded in their own stories, participants spoke to the realities of living with epilepsy and seizures.
For some, that meant sharing personal experiences of managing seizures or navigating care. For others, it meant speaking as a parent, caregiver, or supporter, offering insight into how epilepsy impacts not just one individual, but entire families and communities.
These conversations helped paint a fuller picture of the challenges many in the epilepsy community face, opening the door to deeper discussions around key issues, including:
- Access to affordable medications and medical supplies
- Raising awareness of SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy)
- Ensuring access to essential health services, including transportation, mental health care, housing support, and caregiver resources that support long-term stability and quality of life
By connecting personal experiences to broader systems and policies, each conversation built greater understanding while laying the groundwork for continued advocacy and future policy progress across Minnesota.
Thank you for Advocating with Us
To everyone who showed up, shared your story, or supported this day, thank you. Your voice is essential in building a future where every person impacted by epilepsy has access to the care, resources, and support they need on their journey.
Together, as advocates, we are moving toward a future where no one faces epilepsy alone.
If you weren’t able to attend Day at the Capitol this year, there are still many ways to advocate with EFMN. Learn more about EFMN’s current priorities and how to stay connected.
Explore more event photos on our EFMN Flickr page.