Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota

Virtual Teen Connect Group: Virtual Hang Out
2020-05-19 15:00 - 16:00 (America/Chicago)
Stay connected during this “safe at home” time 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. Contact Erik Williams with any questions at ewilliams@efmn.org or 651-262-9345.

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.

Virtual Connect Group Open to Anyone: Mindfulness
2020-05-14 12:00 - 13:00
We welcome individuals, friends, and families who are impacted by epilepsy to connect and share with one another the experiences, thoughts, and resources that have taken part in 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 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.

Seizure Smart Childcare Personnel Webinar
2020-05-12 18:00 - 19:00
1 in 10 people will have a seizure in their lifetime and 1 in 26 will develop epilepsy, this FREE TRAINING provides useful information so you can be prepared. With the convenience of a webinar, you can do it at your home or you can set it up for all your staff to view. Register today!

Childcare personnel, in general, are a unique group that understands the challenges seizures may present. This webinar will help childcare staff learn about seizures and epilepsy so that those children will have the best possible experience.

Participants will learn:
• how to recognize and respond to both epileptic seizures and febrile seizures.
• when to call 911 and when it is not necessary
• how to develop a seizure action plan and follow the plan for each child
Register here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1500984410540039180

Virtual Teen Connect - Pictionary
2020-04-30 16:00 - 17:00
Stay connected during this “safe at home” time and join EFMN’s Virtual Teen Connect Pictionary Party! Teens (13-18 years old) living with epilepsy are invited to sign in to test your drawing and guessing skills while creating connections with peers from across MN, eastern ND, and western WI. Contact Erik Williams with any questions at ewilliams@efmn.org or 651-262-9345.

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. We want you 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: We want to be able to help should a seizure or other medical situations arise for you during the group time. This information is not shared outside of EFMN staff and would only be used if EMS needs to be contacted to respond to your home to provide medical care.

Nystrom & Associates Presents: Staying Mentally Healthy During Covid-19
2020-04-29 18:00 - 19:00
Nystrom & Associates is hosting a FREE Facebook Live event! Join Us Wednesday, April 29th at 6pm for Nystrom Live on Facebook.

Sarah Gross, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapist speaks on self-care during the COVID-19 crisis

Self-care tips during self-isolation
Helpful relaxation tools
Absolutely Free!!

**This is not an Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota event.**

Disclosure in Employment: Epilepsy and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
2020-04-28 16:00 - 17:00
The decision of whether to disclose your epilepsy to a current or potential employer is a highly personal matter that can be fraught with fears and uncertainty. This free webinar will examine the pros and cons of disclosure, when it might be advisable or necessary, and how to do it. We will also cover the employer’s obligations under Title I of the ADA, including questions they may and may not ask. Information will provided on disclosure during the application and interview process as well as on the job.

Register here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/1412965206180981004

Virtual Town Hall with Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities
2020-04-28 10:00 - 11:00
Please join members of the Minnesota Consortium for Citizens with Disabilities (MNCCD) on April 28th for a virtual town hall forum about the impacts of COVID-19 on members of our disability community statewide.
The depth of this public health crisis greatly impacts individuals with disabilities, their family members, and support professionals – many of whom are at greater risk due to underlying health conditions, low income, and food/housing insecurity.
This also comes at a time when our current network of disability supports – especially Personal Care Assistance (PCA) – is at the brink of collapse due to the widespread workforce shortage.
That’s why – now more than ever – we need help from Congress to maintain stability and consistency in service provision, service navigation, and advocacy to help ensure that people with disabilities can stay healthy in their homes and communities.
During this town hall forum, we hope to highlight individuals’ stories to inform our members of Congress’ work in developing COVID-19 emergency relief legislation that addresses the needs of people with disabilities.
Zoom Dial-in / Video Conference: https://arcminnesota.zoom.us/j/217753006 or call 1-877-853-5257
Meeting ID: 217 753 006

Seizure Smart Training Webinar
2020-04-21 17:00 - 18:00
1 in 10 people will have a seizure in their lifetime and 1 in 26 will develop epilepsy, this FREE TRAINING provides useful information so you can be prepared. With the convenience of a webinar, you can do it at your home or you can set it up for all your staff to view. Register today!

Training is a resource that helps participants identify seizures, learn seizure first aid, and overcome the myths surrounding epilepsy.

Participants will learn:
• how to recognize and respond to both epileptic seizures and febrile seizures.
• when to call 911 and when it is not necessary

Each participant will be awarded 1 CEU for attending the ENTIRE webinar. Register here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6720490352406566668

Virtual Adult Connect Group 04/16/2020
2020-04-16 18:30 - 19:30
As we are all learning ways to work and live in our own “safe at home” settings, EFMN is offering a new Virtual Adult Connect Group option for anyone in MN and eastern ND. This 60 minute meeting time will provide opportunities 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 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.

Virtual Parent Connect Group 04/14/2020
2020-04-14 18:30 - 19:30
As we are all learning ways to work and live in our own “safe at home” settings, EFMN is offering a new Virtual Parent Connect Group option for anyone in MN and eastern ND. This 60 minute meeting time will provide opportunities 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 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.

Virtual Teen Connect Group 04/09/2020
2020-04-09 16:00 - 17:00
As we are all learning ways to work and live in our own “safe at home” settings, EFMN is offering a new Teen Virtual Connect Group option for any teens (13-18 years old) living with epilepsy in MN and eastern ND. This 60 minute meeting time will provide opportunities 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 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.

Community Webinar
2020-04-07 10:00 - 18:56
In response to the cancellation of our in-person events through the end of April, we invite you to a special EFMN Community Webinar – A virtual gathering of the epilepsy community with special guests and people impacted by epilepsy.

We welcome those across Minnesota and eastern North Dakota to join us for a conversation about the time we are living in and how together we can support one another in overcoming challenges, gaining independence, and empowering the fight.

Special Edition Webinar: Epilepsy and COVID-19 - hosted by VNS Therapy
2020-04-02 19:00 - 20:00
As the access to healthcare professionals is limited during these unprecedented times, we invite people with epilepsy and caregivers to join a special edition webinar about epilepsy and COVID-19.

These programs aim to:

Inform on the current COVID-19 situation and provide recommendations for people with epilepsy
Educate attendees on the risk factors of contracting COVID-19
Advice on precautions and ways to mitigate risk and public exposure
Alleviate misconceptions and ease concerns from misinformation
Answer questions about epilepsy, VNS Therapy and/or COVID-19

These two webinars will be led by Drs. Katie Polovitz and Angus Wilfong – hosted by VNS Therapy.

Register Here

CANCELED - Family Connect Group - Fargo
2020-03-20 17:30 - 18:30
Parents, please join us for open conversation and to share your journey with other parents and caregivers. To help alleviate childcare concerns, we will have supervised gym activities for children. Light snacks will be provided. RSVP here or contact Amy Haugen at amy.haugen@efmn.org or (320) 203-9722 with questions.

CANCELED - Adult Connect Group - St. Paul
2020-03-19 18:00 - 20:00
Adults affected by epilepsy, connect, share stories and support each other. Please feel free to invite family or friends. No one should face seizures alone. Refreshments provided.

Adult Connect Group - Duluth
2020-03-12 17:30 - 19:00
Join us to connect with other adults affected by epilepsy. This month our discussion topic is “Treatment Options for Epilepsy.”

The MN Room is located on the first floor, across from the cafeteria. Light refreshments available.

Seizure Smart School Personnel Webinar
2020-03-12 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

Sign-up here: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/2104647078436410637

Parent Connect Group - Edina
2020-03-10 18:15 - 19:45
Come and connect for support and resources on topics that deal solely with raising children living with epilepsy. This group is for parents, guardians and caretakers of any age of children with epilepsy, youth or adult. We will also be joined by a special guest advocate speaker who will share her personal journey as a kid growing up with epilepsy and the support she received along the way. Light refreshments will be served. Contact Erik Williams with any questions at ewilliams@efmn.org or 651-287-2319.

Seizure Smart School Nurse Webinar
2020-03-10 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 are 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. Speaker TBD.

Cost: Free
1.5 CEU will be awarded.

RSVP here: https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/3586839330212570891

Contact jpickett@efmn.org with any questions.

Teen Social Group, Rec Center Games - Minneapolis
2020-03-07 13:00 - 15:00
Join our Teen Social Group (13-18 years old) for a free afternoon of board games, card games, foosball, pool and ping pong at the Armatage Rec Center! Feel free to bring your favorite games and/or snacks along to share with the group.

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

Adult and Caregiver Connect Group - St. Cloud
2020-03-05 19:00 - 20:30 | St. Cloud Business Center, 14 North 7th Avenue, St. Cloud, MN, 56303, United States
We welcome adults, caregivers and parents affected by epilepsy to join us for a time to connect and support one another. In March we will hear from 3 families who have had different treatment procedures to stop intractable seizures. There will be open discussion time as well to share your questions and your journey. Contact Amy Haugen at 320.203.9722 or amy.haugen@efmn.org with questions.

Adult Connect Group - Fargo
2020-03-02 18:00 - 19:30
Join other adults with epilepsy for connection and support. Kaylee Jaeger from LivaNova will provide information on VNS (Vagus Nerve Stimulation) therapy as a treatment for intractable epilepsy. Light snacks provided.

RSVP here or contact Amy Haugen at amy.haugen@efmn.org or (320) 203-9722 with questions. Walk-ins welcome.

Partner Event: The ABCs of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) - Duluth
2020-02-25 18:30 - 20:30 | La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Duluth, 1805 Maple Grove Rd, Duluth, MN, 55811, United States
This workshop will help parents understand how to use the Individualized Education Program (IEP) to benefit their child. We will use a PACER booklet to understand how each required part of the IEP can be developed to meet the child’s needs. Parents will gain knowledge about how to participate effectively in the annual IEP meeting. To participate in the workshop, parents will need to bring a copy of their child’s most recent school special education evaluation report, and their child’s current IEP.

Partner Event: The ABCs of the Individualized Education Program (IEP) - Grand Marais
2020-02-24 18:30 - 20:30 | Cook County Higher Education, 300 W 3rd St, Grand Marais, MN, 55604, United States

Family Connect Group - Fargo
2020-02-21 17:30 - 18:30
Parents, please join us for open conversation and to share your journey with other parents and caregivers. To help alleviate childcare concerns, we will have supervised gym activities for children. Light snacks will be provided. Contact Amy Haugen at 320.203.9722 or amy.haugen@efmn.org with questions.

Connect Group - Eden Prairie
2020-02-13 18:00 - 20:00
Come for connections and support. Whether you are a parent with a child affected, or someone who is living with epilepsy, sharing and hearing everyone’s journey can create a powerful impact. This opportunity to meet others is open to family and friends. Light refreshments will be provided.

CANCELED - Adult Connect Group - Duluth
2020-02-13 17:30 - 19:00
This event has been canceled due to weather.

Online Fundraising Event: Giving Hearts Day
2020-02-13
Givings Hearts Day is a 24-hour fundraising event in the North Dakota and northwestern Minnesota.

Social Event, Ice Skating - Metro
2020-02-08 12:30 - 15:00
All families affected by epilepsy are welcome to join in an afternoon of ice skating at The MN Oval, the largest outdoor refrigerated ice rink in North America! Connect with other families while enjoying a classic Minnesota winter activity and over hot chocolate in the warming house. Cost is $10 per family and rental skates, if needed, are available at The Oval for $3 per pair (paid separately on site). Contact Erik Williams with any questions at ewilliams@efmn.org or 651-262-9345.

Adult and Caregiver Connect Group - St. Cloud
2020-02-06 19:00 - 20:30
We welcome adults and caregivers affected by epilepsy to join us for a time to connect and support one another. February’s meeting will be an open forum. Bring any questions you have about epilepsy, your specific diagnosis, etc. As we share our journeys with seizures, we can learn from one another. Contact Amy Haugen with questions at amy.haugen@efmn.org or 320.203.9722.
