Butterfly Release: Sunday, October 20

OCTOBER IS SUDEP-EPILEPSY AWARENESS MONTH

GULF COAST EPILEPSY ALLIANCE (GCEA)

Est. 2019

Gulf Coast Epilepsy Alliance (GCEA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing essential services and support to individuals affected by epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.

Our Story:

Shena Daly Pearson and her son, Trysten Pearson, founded Gulf Coast Epilepsy Alliance (GCEA) inspired by their personal experience with epilepsy. Trysten's diagnosis of multiple brain and seizure disorders, including epilepsy, at the age of 12, prompted them to recognize the critical need for assistance and education within the Texas Gulf Coast community.

At the young age of 13, Trysten established the UTMB Epilepsy Fund at the University of Texas Medical Branch, situated on Galveston Island. This philanthropic initiative was created while his mother served within the institution, under the leadership of President Dr. David Callendar. The primary objective of this fund is to provide support to the UTMB Department of Neurology's Epilepsy Program, facilitating advancements in research, treatment, and patient care.

For five years, they served the Epilepsy Foundation Texas - Houston, Dallas-Fort Worth, and West Texas. Together, Shena and Trysten worked to advocate for important legislative changes, such as the Texas Compassionate-Use Act and House Bill 684 for Texas Schools. Presently, they are engaged in the development of two new pieces of state legislation related to those with disabilities and epilepsy.

Their efforts also included being featured in an article published by the New York Times, bringing awareness to SUDEP – Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy in collaboration with the Danny Did Foundation. Trysten's accomplishments include reaching the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout with the Boy Scouts of America.

Mission:

At GCEA, we are committed to promoting awareness, education, and advocacy to improve the quality of life for those living with epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders in Texas. We offer a range of resources, programs, and events designed to empower individuals and their families in managing their health and well-being.

Vision:

At GCEA, our vision is to create a world where individuals can live free from the limitations of epilepsy, seizures, and other brain disorders.

GCEA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, all contributions are tax deductible.

EIN# 84-2099498

CDC Facts:

Seizures are common.

1 in 10 people in the United States will have a seizure in their lifetime. This means that someday you may need to help someone.

Epilepsy is common.

CDC estimates that about 2.9 million U.S. adults had active epilepsy in 2021.
And, an estimated 456,000 U.S. children 17 or younger had active epilepsy in 2022.

People with epilepsy can have a hard time getting the medical care they need.

In 2019, the average annual health care spending for epilepsy and seizures alone was $24.5 billion in the United States.
Seizure costs were $19 billion.
Epilepsy costs were $5.4 billion.

Butterfly Release: Sunday, October 20

Thank You For Your Support!

GULF COAST EPILEPSY ALLIANCE (GCEA)

Est. 2019

CDC Facts:

Cookie Policy