Epilepsy can be an isolating condition without the support of others, but we believe that no one should have to face epilepsy alone. Connect Groups are an easy way to meet people affected by epilepsy and share experiences in a safe and supportive environment. The structure and intent of Connect Groups vary by location to meet the needs of that community. Sometimes these epilepsy support group meetings have a set topic, while others are an open discussion. Occasionally, we’ll be joined by guest speakers sharing about a subject specific to living with epilepsy. 

Connect Group Guidelines

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We feel it’s important to create a place of safety and trust, so we ask that you please follow these Connect Group guidelines.

• What is said in the meeting, stays in the meeting — This is the essential principle of confidentiality. It’s everyone’s responsibility to make the group a safe place to share.
• Share the air time — Everyone who wishes to share has an opportunity to do so. No one person should monopolize the group time.
• Use “I” language — Share from your personal experience. Say “this is what helped me” or “when I was faced with this problem, I …” Please don’t give advice unless asked to.
• Model respectfulness and kindness — Differences of opinion are okay. Each person should be allowed to speak free from interruptions and side conversations.
• Adhere to meeting start times and end times — Our meetings are not “open house” style. We often have professional speakers and an agenda.
• Respond to seizure activity appropriately — The facilitator of your group is trained in seizure first aid. Please follow their instructions and know that if you have a seizure, you’re in good hands.
• We don’t share participants’ contact information — If you’ve made new friends in your group (and we know you will!), please take it upon yourselves to exchange contact information.

Current Connect Groups:

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Metro Region:

• Quarterly Parent Connect: intended for parents of children, of any age, who have epilepsy
• Monthly Adult Connect: intended for adults with epilepsy
• Monthly Metro Connect: intended for individuals, family members, and friends affected by epilepsy

St. Cloud Region:

• Monthly Connect: intended for individuals, family members, and friends affected by epilepsy

Fargo/Moorhead Region:

• Monthly Adult Connect: intended for adults with epilepsy
• Monthly Family Connect: intended for families affected by epilepsy

Duluth Region:

• Monthly Adult Connect: intended for adults with epilepsy
• Bi-Annual Family Connect: intended for families affected by epilepsy
• Bi-Annual Itasca County Connect: intended for anyone affected by epilepsy, rotates between Deer River and Grand Rapids

Rochester Region:

• Monthly Connect: intended for individuals, family members, and friends affected by epilepsy; rotates monthly between Rochester and Mankato