Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota

Wellness Wednesday Webinar: Social Security Disability
2022-04-27 18:30 - 19:45 (America/Chicago)
An epilepsy diagnosis can make you eligible for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Join us on April 27 to learn about SSDI and SSI eligibility criteria for adults and children from Sara Cavallo, Coordinator with the Social Security Administration. This webinar includes information on the benefits provided and how to apply. Additional topics related to SSDI and SSI will be covered, including if you can still work while receiving disability payments.

>>REGISTER HERE

Rochester Youth & Family: Quarry Hill Nature Center
2022-04-28 18:00 - 19:00 | Quarry Hill Nature Center, 701 Silver Creek Rd NE, Rochester, MN, 55906, United States
Bring your family and loved ones to enjoy nature and some fresh air. We invite you to join us to connect with others impacted by epilepsy while enjoying a walk through the many trails at the Quarry Nature Center. This event is free for all!

If you have questions, please contact Southern Minnesota Regional Outreach Manager Martin Hernandez at mhernandez@efmn.org or 507.287.2103.

Adult Virtual Connect Group
2022-04-28 18:30 - 19:30
Adults living with epilepsy come together to meet others, share the triumphs and challenges of living with seizures and connect with those who understand the epilepsy journey.

For more information, please contact Erik Williams 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 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.

Grand Rapids Youth & Family Event: Guided Acrylic Painting Class
2022-04-30 14:00 - 16:00 | MacRostie Art Center, 405 NW 1st Ave, Grand Rapids, MN, 55744, United States
Enjoy a fun day with other individuals and families impacted by epilepsy to create your own acrylic painting on a canvas. Space is limited, so please RSVP ASAP to reserve your spot. This event is free for those with epilepsy and $10 for additional guests. Payment will be taken at the event. Financial assistance is available.

If you have any questions, please contact Northland/ Central MN Regional Outreach Manager Lisa Peterson at lisa.peterson@efmn.org or 218.624.1330.

St. Paul Adult Crosby Farm Park Meetup
2022-05-02 18:00 - 19:30 | Crosby Farm Park, 2595 Crosby Farm Rd, St. Paul, MN, 55116, United States
Join other adults living with epilepsy for an evening of fun activities, snacks, and conversation in the great outdoors at Crosby Farm Regional Park. Enjoy some classic lawn and board games or try out your treasure hunting skills to find Geocaches hidden in the park. Snacks will be provided. If you have questions, please contact East Metro Regional Outreach Manager Angela Bowles Edwards at abedwards@efmn.org or 651-368-6209.

Loss of Loved One Virtual Connect Group
2022-05-03 18:30 - 19:30
Losing a loved one to epilepsy is a difficult journey. EFMN invites you to attend our quarterly Loss of Loved One Connect Group to find peer support, helpful resources, and to talk honestly about your grieving process. This group is specifically open to anyone who has lost a loved one to an epilepsy-related death.

For more information contact Amy Haugen at amy.haugen@efmn.org or 320.203.9722.

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.

Plymouth Youth and Family French Park Meet Up
2022-05-05 18:00 - 19:30 | French Regional Park, 12605 Rockford Rd, Plymouth, MN, 55441, United States
Celebrate the coming of summer at French Regional Park with other families living with epilepsy. Make connections while climbing through the massive playground and enjoying some snacks and treats in the great outdoors. This event is open to youth, teens, and adults with epilepsy along with their families. The cost is $10 per family.

If you have questions, please contact West Metro Regional Outreach Manager Erik Williams at ewilliams@efmn.org or 651.287.2319.

Young Adult Virtual Connect Group
2022-05-05 18:30 - 19:30
A space for young adults with epilepsy to meet others and talk about life updates, challenges, and successes with others who understand the epilepsy journey. This is a young adult-led group looking to create peer-to-peer support and connection.

Please contact Lisa Necastro at lisa.necastro@efmn.org for more information.

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 provide you with the best experience as a group member.

Emergency Contact Information: Should a seizure or other medical situation arise for you during the group time, we need 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.

Rare Epilepsies Conference
2022-05-07 09:00 - 15:30, 2022-05-09, 2022-05-11
The 2nd Annual Upper Midwest Rare Epilepsies Conference will take place virtually on Saturday, May 7, 9, and 11, and will feature presentations from leading medical professionals, family caregivers, and epilepsy researchers as they present on topics including new therapies, research, wellness, and planning for the future.

With 3.4 million people diagnosed with epilepsy in the US and 1 in 26 people developing the disorder in their lifetime, an increasing number of people are being diagnosed with a form of rare epilepsy. Though advances in research and genetics are resulting in an increased understanding of many of these syndromes, there is still much to learn. Rare epilepsies such as the Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome, Doose Syndrome, and others can greatly alter a person’s life, and the more we can understand them, the better equipped we are to fight the challenges they can present.

Register here!

Marshall Meet and Greet with Lisa Necastro
2022-05-09 17:00 - 18:30 | Marshall Pizza Ranch, 1420 Boyer Dr., Marshall, MN, 56258, United States
We are excited to have you join us and meet your new Western MN Regional Outreach Manager, Lisa Necastro. Stop in for supper at the Marshall Pizza Ranch and stay for great conversation and connection. The buffet is free for individuals with epilepsy, the additional cost for adults is $14, and the cost for children ranges depending on age. Please be ready to pay at Pizza Ranch.

Please contact Lisa Necastro at lisa.necastro@efmn.org with any questions.

Duluth Young Adult - Coffee Shop Meet-Ups
2022-05-10 16:00 - 18:00 | Caribou Coffee – Duluth, 2100 London Rd, Duluth, MN, 55812, United States
Join us at Caribou Coffee to connect with EFMN and other young adults living with epilepsy. EFMN would love to treat you to coffee, tea, or non-caffeine drinks in exchange for good company and conversation. Guests are welcomed as well!

If you have any questions, please contact Northland/ Central MN Regional Outreach Manager, Lisa Peterson at lisa.peterson@efmn.org or 218.624.1330.

Chanhassen Adult Meet and Greet
2022-05-10 18:30 - 19:30 | Chanhassen Library, 7711 Kerber Blvd, Chanhassen, MN, 55317, United States
Gather with other adults living with epilepsy at the Chanhassen Library while connecting over some easy, relaxing crafts. This event is FREE to attend and guests are welcome to join.

If you have questions, please contact West Metro Regional Outreach Manager Erik Williams at ewilliams@efmn.org or 651.287.2319.

Teen Virtual Connect Group
2022-05-10 18:30 - 19:30
This space is for teens with epilepsy to meet others who understand the journey they’re on. Join us to hang out, make new friends, and talk about growing up and living with epilepsy. For more information, contact Martin Hernandez at mhernandez@efmn.org or 507-287-2103.

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.

Customized Virtual Connect: Parents Living with Epilepsy
2022-05-10 19:00 - 20:00 | MN, United States
Meet other parents and caregivers who live with seizures and/or epilepsy. This is an opportunity to meet others and talk honestly about the triumphs and challenges of being a parent who has epilepsy and how to talk to your children about your epilepsy.

For more information, contact Lisa Peterson at lisa.peterson@efmn.org or 218.624.1330.

Mankato Young Adult Meetup - Williams Nature Center
2022-05-12 17:00 - 18:00 | Williams Nature Center, 54988 State Hwy 68, Mankato, MN, 56001, United States
Come and meet other young adults living with epilepsy. Connect with others while taking in some natural wonders and enjoying a walk through the many trails at the Williams Nature Center.

If you have questions, please contact Southern Minnesota Regional Outreach Manager Martin Hernandez at mhernandez@efmn.org or 507.287.2103.

An Evening for Epilepsy
2022-05-13 18:30 | ARIA, 105 N 1st St, Minneapolis, MN, 55401, United States
Join the Epilepsy Foundation of Minnesota’s greatest supporters – our beloved epilepsy community of people living with and impacted by epilepsy – for our annual in-person gala on May 13, 2022. With your help, we can empower those living with epilepsy and continue to support them in their epilepsy journey. Guests will enjoy a stand-up reception-style event with heavy hors d’oeuvres with emcee Mike Marcotte. Enjoy a silent auction, games, a live program, and Fund-a-Need, followed by live music from The Cactus Blossoms.

Last day to buy tickets is April 29, 2022.

Buy Tickets Now

Epilepsy Support Group & Open Gym hosted by Ellis & Friends
2022-05-15 17:30 - 18:30 | Explorer Academy, 1780 17th St S, Fargo, ND, 58103, United States
The group gives kids a safe environment to play with their peers and their siblings while parents share experiences with each other in regards to epilepsy. For more information and to RSVP, please email lacey@tntkidsfitness.org.

Farmington Youth and Family Meetup
2022-05-16 18:00 - 19:00 | Fawn Crossing Nature Play Area, 17100 Station Trail, Farmington, MN, 55024, United States
Join other families living with epilepsy for an evening of outdoor fun at Fawn Crossing Nature Play Area in Whitetail Woods Regional Park. Get to know other youth, teens, and families as you explore the magical hollow, build forts and sand sculptures, climb on boulders, and take in the natural beauty of the area. Snacks will be provided. This event is free and guests are welcome.

If you have questions, please contact East Metro Regional Outreach Manager Angela Bowles Edwards at abedwards@efmn.org or 651-368-6209.

Grand Rapids Young Adults: Coffee Shop Meet-Up
2022-05-17 16:00 - 17:30 | Brewed Awakenings, 24 NE 4th St, Grand Rapids, MN, 55744, United States
Join us at Brewed Awakenings to connect with EFMN and other young adults living with epilepsy. EFMN would love to treat you to coffee, tea, or non-caffeinated drinks in exchange for good company and conversation. Guests are welcomed as well!

If you have any questions, please contact Northland/ Central MN Regional Outreach Manager, Lisa Peterson at lisa.peterson@efmn.org or 218.624.1330.

Rare Epilepsies Virtual Connect Group
2022-05-17 18:30 - 19:30
A space for people impacted by a rare epilepsy or complex diagnosis to meet others and talk about life updates, challenges, and successes with others who understand the rare epilepsy/complex diagnosis journey. This includes parents and caregivers to children with rare epilepsy, as well as adults. This is a group looking to create peer-to-peer support and connection.

For more information, please contact Angela Bowles Edwards at abedwards@efmn.org or 651-368-6209.

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.

Moorhead Meet and Greet with Lisa Necastro
2022-05-18 17:00 - 18:30 | Fargo Pizza Ranch, 4480 23rd Ave S A, Fargo, ND, 58104, United States
We are excited to have you join us and meet your new Western MN Regional Outreach Manager, Lisa Necastro. Stop in for supper at the Fargo Pizza Ranch and stay for great conversation and connection. The buffet is free for individuals with epilepsy, the additional cost for adults is $14, and the cost for children ranges depending on age. Please be ready to pay at Pizza Ranch.

Please contact Lisa Necastro at lisa.necastro@efmn.org with any questions.

Minnetrista Young Adult Mini Golf
2022-05-18 18:00 - 19:30 | Big Stone Mini Golf, 7110 County Rd 110 Ext W, Minnetrista, MN, 55364, United States
Meet other young adults living with epilepsy at Big Stone Mini Golf and Sculpture Garden to test your golf skills in a wonderfully art-filled course. This event is free for those living with epilepsy and guests are welcome to join at $12 per person paid directly at the event.

If you have questions, please contact West Metro Regional Outreach Manager Erik Williams at ewilliams@efmn.org or 651.287.2319.

Austin Young Adult Meet and Greet: Hormel Nature Center
2022-05-19 17:00 - 18:00 | Hormel Nature Center, 1304 21st St NE, Austin, MN, 55912, United States
Come and meet other Young Adults living with Epilepsy. Connect with others while taking in some natural wonders and enjoying a walk through the many trails at the Hormel Nature Center. If you have questions, please contact Southern Minnesota Regional Outreach Manager Martin Hernandez at mhernandez@efmn.org or 507.287.2103.

Parent/Caregiver Virtual Connect Group
2022-05-19 18:30 - 19:30
Meet other parents, grandparents, and caregivers who live day-to-day caring for a child with seizures and/or epilepsy. This is an opportunity to meet others, offer peer-to-peer support, share resources and experiences, and talk honestly about the triumphs and challenges of a child’s epilepsy journey. For more information, please contact Erik Williams 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 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.

Bemidji Meet and Greet with Lisa Necastro
2022-05-23 17:00 - 18:30 | Buffalo Wild Wings, 225 Paul Bunyan Dr NW, Bemidji, MN, 56601, United States
We are excited to have you join us and meet your new Western MN Regional Outreach Manager, Lisa Necastro. Stop in for supper at Buffalo Wild Wings and stay for great conversation and connection.

Please contact Lisa Necastro at lisa.necastro@efmn.org with any questions.

Columbia Heights Young Adult Bonfire at Kordiak Park
2022-05-24 18:00 - 19:30 | Kordiak Park, 1845 49th Ave NE, Columbia Heights, MN, 55421, United States
Gather around a campfire with other adults living with epilepsy at Kordiak Park. Get to know others, chat, make s’mores, and enjoy the beautiful views of the park. This event is free and guests are welcome. If you have questions, please contact East Metro Regional Outreach Manager Angela Bowles Edwards at abedwards@efmn.org or 651-368-6209.

St. Cloud Young Adult: Coffee Shop Meet-Up
2022-05-25 16:00 - 18:00 | Starbucks – St. Cloud, 2860 W Division St., St. Cloud, MN, 56301, United States
Join us at Starbucks (next to TJ Maxx) to connect with EFMN and other young adults living with epilepsy. EFMN would love to treat you to coffee, tea, or non-caffeine drinks in exchange for good company and conversation. Guests are welcomed as well!

If you have any questions, please contact Northland/Central MN Regional Outreach Manager, Lisa Peterson at lisa.peterson@efmn.org or 218.624.1330.

Wellness Wednesday Webinar: Managing Anxiety and Depression in Epilepsy
2022-05-25 18:30 - 19:45
A crucial part of epilepsy self-management is mental health. People with epilepsy experience anxiety and depression at higher rates than the general population.

Hear from a clinical psychologist from the Minnesota Epilepsy Group to understand what anxiety and depression can look like in individuals living with epilepsy, ranging from children to adults. Join us to learn different coping strategies for self-management and how to know when additional professional help is needed and how to access it.

>>REGISTER HERE
