Adult Virtual Connect Group: Routines and Seizure Control
2020-09-17 18:30 - 19:30 (America/Chicago)
Do routines help provide seizure control? We welcome adults with epilepsy to connect and share with one another the challenges and victories that you are experiencing along this part of your epilepsy journey.

In order to ensure we can provide the best experience possible, we need a few things from you. Before registering for this group, please make sure you have the following:

A device that enables you to communicate with others – through a computer, tablet, or phone. A camera is preferred so that you can see others and they can see you, but it is not required.
Pair of headphones and a quiet space in your home. This is to ensure confidentiality and to provide you with the best experience as a member of the group.

Emergency Contact Information: Should a seizure or other medical situation arise for you during the group time, we need to have access to an emergency contact (name and phone number), and your physical location address. This information is not shared outside of EFMN staff unless they need to contact EMS services to respond to your home to provide medical care.

Contact Lisa Peterson with any questions at lisa.peterson@efmn.org or 218.624.1330

Family Virtual Social Event: It's About Connection
2020-09-18 18:00 - 19:00
The busyness of the fall season can feel overwhelming to families and with additional adjustments around COVID, education, and our overall health we can all feel more stressed. We invite you to take an hour-long pause in your daily schedule, to join us virtually, as we provide a space for families to meet, share, and gain support in one another. We encourage the whole family to join in on this time..parents, children, grandparents, pets, whoever you call family and count on as your support team. EFMN staff will lead this time with a few icebreaker activities. We realize these times are challenging not only on our physical and emotional health but on our social health as well. We encourage you and your family to take a pause and join us.

In order to ensure we can provide the best experience possible, we need a few things from you. Before registering for this group, please make sure you have the following:

A device that enables you to communicate with others – through a computer, tablet, or phone. A camera is preferred so that you can see others and they can see you, but it is not required.
A pair of headphones or a quiet space in your home. This is to ensure confidentiality and to provide you with the best experience as a member of the group.
Emergency Contact Information: Should a seizure or other medical situation arise for you during the group time, we need to have access to an emergency contact (name and phone number), and your physical location address. This information is not shared outside of EFMN staff unless they need to contact EMS services to respond to your home to provide medical care.

Contact Amy Haugen with any questions at amy.haugen@efmn.org or 320.203.9722

Seizure Triggers 101 Webinar
2020-09-21 12:00 - 13:00
The Seizures Triggers 101 Webinar is an opportunity to learn about epilepsy and seizure triggers right in your own community. EFMN’s hour-long presentation is a resource that helps participants identify seizure triggers, learn what seizure triggers are, and overcome the myths surrounding epilepsy. Approximately 60 minutes in length.

Register Here!

Teen Virtual Connect Group: Word Games
2020-09-22 16:00 - 17:00
Word Games Virtual Hang Out: Stay connected and join EFMN’s Teen Connect Group for a virtual gathering and hang out! Teens (13-18 years old) living with epilepsy are invited to sign in to play games, share recommendations, and more while creating connections with peers from across MN, eastern ND, and western WI. The theme of this meeting will be Word Games: Scattergories, Pictionary, charades, and more!

In order to ensure we can provide the best experience possible, we need a few things from you. Before registering for this group, please make sure you have the following:

A device that enables you to communicate with others – through a computer, tablet, or phone. A camera is preferred so that you can see others and they can see you, but it is not required.
A pair of headphones or a quiet space in your home. This is to ensure confidentiality and to provide you with the best experience as a member of the group.
Emergency Contact Information: Should a seizure or other medical situation arise for you during the group time, we need to have access to an emergency contact (name and phone number), and your physical location address. This information is not shared outside of EFMN staff unless they need to contact EMS services to respond to your home to provide medical care.

Contact Erik Williams with any questions at ewilliams@efmn.org or 651.262.9345.

Seizure Smart School Nurse Webinar
2020-09-22 16:00 - 17:30
This free training is designed for school nurses and other health staff to refresh their knowledge and learn about new developments regarding epilepsy and seizures. All school personnel is welcome to attend, and those with intermediate levels of knowledge around epilepsy in a school setting. This webinar will begin with a brief epilepsy review, followed by treatment options, rescue medications, new treatments, and helpful tips regarding seizures in the school setting.

Lynn Goggin (BSN RN LSN PHN) will be guest speaking. Lynn has thirty-six years of nursing experience and brings a wealth of knowledge. Cost: Free1.5 CEU will be awarded.

Register here!

Virtual Creative Arts Program
2020-09-22 18:00 - 19:30
EFMN and the Art Therapy program at Adler Graduate School would like to invite individuals and families who have been impacted by epilepsy to join us in a virtual art therapy studio experience. We will host a series of six weekly 90-minute group sessions via a HIPPA compliant Zoom platform. The first session will start on Tuesday, September 22, and run each Tuesday through October 27th (6 total sessions), and will run from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. We encourage individuals and families to attend all 6 sessions, if possible. This is a progressive artistic process.

The groups will be facilitated by a Registered and Board-Certified Art Therapist. They will be assisted by art therapy graduate students who have been trained in telehealth delivery of services. As participants, you do not need to identify as an “artist” nor worry about skills or talents in using art materials. Our process has been about mindfully providing a structure to focus participants on their intention for being in the group or on what they need in the “here and now” via brief writing in a journal. We then encourage all participants to engage in simple directed art-making experiences. We realize that since we will not be in the studio space, participants may not have access to a wide variety of art materials. With this in mind, we plan to use simple and accessible materials that you could find in or near your home or community. Our first session may be focused on brainstorming projects and material ideas.

Please note: We require all youth (17 and under) to attend with an adult (parent/guardian/family member).

Before registering for this group, please make sure you have the following:

A device that has a camera: a web camera or phone camera are the most common options. You must be able to be visible during the group meeting.
Pair of headphones and a quiet space in your home. This is to ensure confidentiality and to provide you with the best experience as a member of the group.
Emergency Contact Information: Should a seizure or other medical situation arise for you during the group time, we need to have access to an emergency contact (name and phone number), and your physical location address. This information is not shared outside of EFMN staff unless they need to contact EMS services to respond to your home to provide medical care.

Contact Erik Williams with any questions at ewilliams@efmn.org or 651-262-9345.

Seizure Smart School Personnel Webinar
2020-09-24 16:00 - 17:00
One in ten people will have a seizure in their lifetime. Do you know how to respond? Teachers, school nurses, staff, and families work together to reduce bullying and foster understanding of epilepsy in schools. Learn about seizures, epilepsy, identifying the common seizure types and how to respond appropriately. We’ll also share treatment options and tips for a successful school environment.

Cost: Free; 1 CEU will be awarded.

Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81122288528

Loss of a Loved One Virtual Connect Group: Navigating Family Relationships with Grief
2020-09-24 18:30 - 19:30
Navigating Family Relationships with Grief: How do family relationships change when you are grieving the loss of a loved one? Join us as we share together how we have navigated important relationships during our grief. We welcome anyone who has lost a loved one to a seizure or epilepsy to connect and share with one another the challenges and victories that you are experiencing along this part of your epilepsy journey.

In order to ensure we can provide the best experience possible, we need a few things from you. Before registering for this group, please make sure you have the following:

A device that enables you to communicate with others – through a computer, tablet, or phone. A camera is preferred so that you can see others and they can see you, but it is not required.
A pair of headphones or a quiet space in your home. This is to ensure confidentiality and to provide you with the best experience as a member of the group.

Emergency Contact Information: Should a seizure or other medical situation arise for you during the group time, we need to have access to an emergency contact (name and phone number), and your physical location address. This information is not shared outside of EFMN staff unless they need to contact EMS services to respond to your home to provide medical care.

Contact Amy Haugen with any questions at amy.haugen@efmn.org or 320.203.9722.

Parent Virtual Connect Group: Mental Health & Epilepsy in our Children
2020-09-26 10:00 - 11:00
Mental Health & Epilepsy in our Children: Our children’s mental health is just as important as their physical health. We will share the potential and real impacts of epilepsy on a child’s mental health. We welcome parents and caregivers to connect and share with one another the challenges and victories that you are experiencing along this part of your loved one’s epilepsy journey.

In order to ensure we can provide the best experience possible, we need a few things from you. Before registering for this group, please make sure you have the following:

A device that has a camera: a web camera or phone camera are the most common options. You must be able to be visible during the group meeting.
Pair of headphones and a quiet space in your home. This is to ensure confidentiality and to provide you with the best experience as a member of the group.

Emergency Contact Information: Should a seizure or other medical situation arise for you during the group time, we need to have access to an emergency contact (name and phone number), and your physical location address. This information is not shared outside of EFMN staff unless they need to contact EMS services to respond to your home to provide medical care.

Contact Amy Haugen with any questions at amy.haugen@efmn.org or 320.203.9722.

Focal Seizures 101 Webinar
2020-09-28 17:00 - 18:00
The Focal Seizures 101 Webinar is an opportunity to learn more about focal seizures right from your own device. EFMN’s hour-long Seizure Training is a resource that helps participants identify focal seizures, learn seizure first aid, and overcome the myths surrounding epilepsy. Approximately 60 minutes in length.

Register here!

Seizure Medications and Side Effects Webinar
2020-09-29 18:00 - 19:00
Join us for an opportunity to learn about medications for epilepsy, brand name vs generic, common side effects, and the importance of medication adherence.

Register here!

Virtual Creative Arts Program
2020-09-29 18:00 - 19:30, 2020-10-06 18:00 - 19:30, 2020-10-13 18:00 - 19:30, 2020-10-20 18:00 - 19:30
EFMN and the Art Therapy program at Adler Graduate School would like to invite individuals and families who have been impacted by epilepsy to join us in a virtual art therapy studio experience. We will host a series of four weekly 90-minute group sessions via a HIPPA compliant Zoom platform. The first session will start on Tuesday, September 22, and run each Tuesday through October 27th (6 total sessions), and will run from 6:00 to 7:30 PM. We encourage individuals and families to attend all 6 sessions, if possible. This is a progressive artistic process.

The groups will be facilitated by a Registered and Board-Certified Art Therapist. They will be assisted by art therapy graduate students who have been trained in telehealth delivery of services. As participants, you do not need to identify as an “artist” nor worry about skills or talents in using art materials. Our process has been about mindfully providing a structure to focus participants on their intention for being in the group or on what they need in the “here and now” via brief writing in a journal. We then encourage all participants to engage in simple directed art-making experiences. We realize that since we will not be in the studio space, participants may not have access to a wide variety of art materials. With this in mind, we plan to use simple and accessible materials that you could find in or near your home or community. Our first session may be focused on brainstorming projects and material ideas.

Please note: We require all youth (17 and under) to attend with an adult (parent/guardian/family member).

Before registering for this group, please make sure you have the following:

A device that has a camera: a web camera or phone camera are the most common options. You must be able to be visible during the group meeting.
Pair of headphones and a quiet space in your home. This is to ensure confidentiality and to provide you with the best experience as a member of the group.
Emergency Contact Information: Should a seizure or other medical situation arise for you during the group time, we need to have access to an emergency contact (name and phone number), and your physical location address. This information is not shared outside of EFMN staff unless they need to contact EMS services to respond to your home to provide medical care.

Contact Erik Williams with any questions at ewilliams@efmn.org or 651-262-9345.

2020 EFMN Neighborhood Walk
2020-10-03
The 2020 EFMN Neighborhood Walk on October 3 is a time to unite families and individuals – by walking simultaneously – in their own neighborhoods, parks, and pathways, to raise epilepsy awareness.

Walk Locally
Walk in the place that you feel the most comfortable to promote your support for our mission to lead the fight to overcome the challenges of living with epilepsy. Encourage your loved ones to join you in joining the walk.
Rally Online
EFMN will host a program for all walkers on October 3 to open and close the event. Post pictures and videos on social media to share your experience and show how your team is taking action and raising awareness.
Epilepsy is more than seizures, and it takes more than one person to fight it. Create a team to show your support and celebrate those who are affected by epilepsy. This community-focused walk will help raise funds in which 100% of donations are reinvested back into the five regions we serve.
Register here: https://www.epilepsyfoundationmn.org/make-a-difference/fundraising-events/2020walk/

Generalized Seizures 101 Webinar
2020-10-06 12:00 - 13:00
The Generalized Seizures 101 Webinar is an opportunity to learn more about generalized seizures right from your own device. EFMN’s hour-long Seizure Training is a resource that helps participants identify generalized seizures, learn seizure first aid, and overcome the myths surrounding epilepsy. Approximately 60 minutes in length.

Register here!

Open to Anyone Virtual Connect Group:
2020-10-07 12:00 - 13:00
Support in the Community: What supports can your community provide to those living with epilepsy? We welcome anyone impacted by epilepsy to connect and share with one another the challenges and victories that you are experiencing along this part of your epilepsy journey.

In order to ensure we can provide the best experience possible, we need a few things from you. Before registering for this group, please make sure you have the following:

A device that enables you to communicate with others – through a computer, tablet, or phone. A camera is preferred so that you can see others and they can see you, but it is not required.
A pair of headphones or a quiet space in your home. This is to ensure confidentiality and to provide you with the best experience as a member of the group.
Emergency Contact Information: Should a seizure or other medical situation arise for you during the group time, we need to have access to an emergency contact (name and phone number), and your physical location address. This information is not shared outside of EFMN staff unless they need to contact EMS services to respond to your home to provide medical care.

Contact Lisa Peterson with any questions at lisa.peterson@efmn.org or 218.624.1330.

Teen Virtual Connect Group: Mindfulness Virtual Hang Out
2020-10-13 16:00 - 17:00
Mindfulness Virtual Hang Out: Stay connected and join EFMN’s Teen Connect Group for a virtual gathering and hang out! Teens (13-18 years old) living with epilepsy are invited to sign in to play games, share recommendations, and more while creating connections with peers from across MN, eastern ND, and western WI. The theme of this meeting will be Mindfulness: relaxation techniques, breathing tips, practicing gratitude, and more!

In order to ensure we can provide the best experience possible, we need a few things from you. Before registering for this group, please make sure you have the following:

A device that enables you to communicate with others – through a computer, tablet, or phone. A camera is preferred so that you can see others and they can see you, but it is not required.
A pair of headphones or a quiet space in your home. This is to ensure confidentiality and to provide you with the best experience as a member of the group.
Emergency Contact Information: Should a seizure or other medical situation arise for you during the group time, we need to have access to an emergency contact (name and phone number), and your physical location address. This information is not shared outside of EFMN staff unless they need to contact EMS services to respond to your home to provide medical care.

Contact Erik Williams with any questions at ewilliams@efmn.org or 651.262.9345.

Job-Seeking for People With Epilepsy Webinar
2020-10-13 17:30 - 18:30
Searching for a job can be an overwhelming process, and individuals with epilepsy often face additional challenges. This webinar will address strategies for job seeking, including:

5 questions to ask yourself before you start applying;
where to find employment opportunities;
and tools and resources to increase your chances of success.

Register Here!

Adult Virtual Connect Group: Speaker from People Incorporated
2020-10-13 18:30 - 19:30
Kelly Mick will share resources from People Incorporated for adults living with epilepsy. We welcome adults with epilepsy to connect and share with one another the challenges and victories that you are experiencing along this part of your epilepsy journey. In order to ensure we can provide the best experience possible, we need a few things from you.

People Incorporated is an innovative community provider of vital integrated behavioral and mental health services in Minnesota. To learn more about People Incorporated, visit https://www.peopleincorporated.org.

In order to ensure we can provide the best experience possible, we need a few things from you. Before registering for this group, please make sure you have the following:

A device that enables you to communicate with others – through a computer, tablet, or phone. A camera is preferred so that you can see others and they can see you, but it is not required.
A pair of headphones or a quiet space in your home. This is to ensure confidentiality and to provide you with the best experience as a member of the group.
Emergency Contact Information: Should a seizure or other medical situation arise for you during the group time, we need to have access to an emergency contact (name and phone number), and your physical location address. This information is not shared outside of EFMN staff unless they need to contact EMS services to respond to your home to provide medical care.

Contact Amy Haugen with any questions at amy.haugen@efmn.org or 320.203.9722.

Epilepsy and Wellness Webinar
2020-10-15 12:00 - 13:00
What does it mean to live well with epilepsy? For each person diagnosed with epilepsy, this question would be answered differently. In this webinar, participants will learn the basic definition of wellness, and several specific areas of wellness that can be assessed by the individual to determine their wellness level in their overall health, and also as it relates to their epilepsy journey. Resources from the Epilepsy Foundation of America’s Wellness Institute will be utilized.

Register Here!

Parent Virtual Connect Group: Supporting Your Students
2020-10-15 18:30 - 19:30
Supporting Your Students: Communicating with your school, creating an ideal learning environment, and building confidence. We welcome parents and caregivers to connect and share with one another the challenges and victories that you are experiencing along this part of your loved one’s epilepsy journey.

In order to ensure we can provide the best experience possible, we need a few things from you. Before registering for this group, please make sure you have the following:

A device that enables you to communicate with others – through a computer, tablet, or phone. A camera is preferred so that you can see others and they can see you, but it is not required.
A pair of headphones or a quiet space in your home. This is to ensure confidentiality and to provide you with the best experience as a member of the group.
Emergency Contact Information: Should a seizure or other medical situation arise for you during the group time, we need to have access to an emergency contact (name and phone number), and your physical location address. This information is not shared outside of EFMN staff unless they need to contact EMS services to respond to your home to provide medical care.

Contact Erik Williams with any questions at ewilliams@efmn.org or 651.262.9345.

Epilepsy and Emergency Medication Webinar
2020-10-21 17:00 - 18:00
The Epilepsy and Emergency Medication Webinar is an opportunity to learn more about epilepsy and emergency medications right from your own device. EFMN’s hour-long presentation is a resource that helps participants understand what rescue medications are, learn more about the different medication options, and resources to learn about the multiple administration options. Dr. Penovich, MD has worked within the epilepsy community for over 20 years. She currently sits on the EFMN Professional Advisory Board. Approximately 60 minutes in length.

Register here!

Loss of a Loved One Virtual Connect Group: What does a "New Normal" even mean?
2020-10-22 18:30 - 19:30
What does a “New Normal” even mean? Join us to share with one another how our loss has impacted those things in our lives that used to seem “normal.” We welcome anyone who has lost a loved one to a seizure or epilepsy to connect and share with one another the challenges and victories that you are experiencing along this part of your grief journey.

In order to ensure we can provide the best experience possible, we need a few things from you. Before registering for this group, please make sure you have the following:

A device that enables you to communicate with others – through a computer, tablet, or phone. A camera is preferred so that you can see others and they can see you, but it is not required.
A pair of headphones or a quiet space in your home. This is to ensure confidentiality and to provide you with the best experience as a member of the group.
Emergency Contact Information: Should a seizure or other medical situation arise for you during the group time, we need to have access to an emergency contact (name and phone number), and your physical location address. This information is not shared outside of EFMN staff unless they need to contact EMS services to respond to your home to provide medical care.

Contact Amy Haugen with any questions at amy.haugen@efmn.org or 320.203.9722.

Adventurous Endeavors – Wolf Wildlife
2020-10-24 12:00 - 13:00
Join us on Saturday, October 24th for a special virtual presentation from the International Wolf Center in Ely, MN. We will hear from educators and see ambassador wolves in a presentation that will keep you on the edge of your seat while learning about these mysterious predators in a LIVE program from northern Minnesota!

Event is open to all youth.

Epilepsy and Medical Implant Devices Webinar
2020-10-26 18:00 - 19:30
If you or your loved one has failed two or more seizure medications, you might be wondering about what other treatment options exist. Learn about the available implant devices including “RNS” Responsive Neurostimulation, “VNS” Vagus Nerve Stimulation, and “DBS” Deep Brain Stimulation that are used to manage seizures.

**This webinar will not be recorded for later viewing**

Register Here!

Adult Virtual Connect Group: Overcoming Obstacles
2020-10-27 16:00 - 17:00
Overcoming Obstacles: Be inspired as we share stories of overcoming obstacles of living with epilepsy. We welcome adults with epilepsy to connect and share with one another the challenges and victories that you are experiencing along this part of your epilepsy journey. In order to ensure we can provide the best experience possible, we need a few things from you.

In order to ensure we can provide the best experience possible, we need a few things from you. Before registering for this group, please make sure you have the following:

A device that enables you to communicate with others – through a computer, tablet, or phone. A camera is preferred so that you can see others and they can see you, but it is not required.
A pair of headphones or a quiet space in your home. This is to ensure confidentiality and to provide you with the best experience as a member of the group.
Emergency Contact Information: Should a seizure or other medical situation arise for you during the group time, we need to have access to an emergency contact (name and phone number), and your physical location address. This information is not shared outside of EFMN staff unless they need to contact EMS services to respond to your home to provide medical care.

Contact Lisa Peterson with any questions at lisa.peterson@efmn.org or 218.624.1330.

Reasonable Accommodations in Employment Webinar
2020-10-27 17:30 - 18:30
One of the most important protections available to individuals with disabilities under Title I of the ADA is the right to receive reasonable accommodations. But what exactly is a reasonable accommodation, when does it have to be provided, and how does a person go about requesting it? These questions and more will be discussed during this free webinar, along with examples of specific accommodations that may be helpful for employees with epilepsy. Whether you are currently employed or searching for a job, this is information you should know.

Register Here!
