10th Annual National Walk for Epilepsy Celebrates Milestone Anniversary in Washington, DC, Today

WASHINGTON, DC - On Saturday, April 16 the National Walk for Epilepsy will gather thousands of supporters nationwide for their annual 5k walk aimed at finding a cure for epilepsy. The event will be held on the Washington Monument grounds and will highlight this year's 10th anniversary milestone.

The National Walk for Epilepsy started in 2006 and has raised nearly $10 million to help provide services for people living with epilepsy, awareness for seizure recognition with first aid, and research toward better treatment options.

For the first time, Sunovion Pharmaceuticals will debut a special "Talk About It" tent for people to open up about their concerns and personal experiences around epilepsy. The tent will give participants a VIP Hollywood experience with cameras, a red carpet, paparazzi and special guests. The walk will also include live performances, family activities, special guest appearances, and an "Ask the Experts" Q&A to help everyone better understand epilepsy from top doctors and experts.

Epilepsy is the 4th most common neurological problem nationwide, impacting 3 million people. This year another 150,000 people living in the US will develop epilepsy. "The National Walk for Epilepsy continues to increase in size every year and we are looking forward to celebrating our 10 year anniversary in April," said Philip M. Gattone, President and CEO of the Epilepsy Foundation. "As the father of a son who lives with epilepsy I am always hopeful that each day we move closer to our goal of finding a cure for this complex condition. I am also looking forward to participating with thousands of other supporters in raising awareness and making a positive difference in the lives of everyone living with epilepsy."

The walk will begin promptly at 9:00am, starting at 15th Street and Independence Avenue NW. There will also be an optional 1 mile "Family Fun Walk" that loops around the Washington Monument.

Special guests scheduled to appear: Rick Harrison (Reality TV personality), Greg Grunberg (Actor, "Star Wars: Episode VII - The Force Awakens), Jerry Kill (Former Head Coach of University of Minnesota Golden Gophers), Washington Redskins Cheerleaders, Haely Jardas (Miss Washington DC), Dana Pirolli (Former Philadelphia Eagles Cheerleader) and Alan Faneca (NFL Hall of Fame Nominee). Full List.

Thank you to our event sponsors: Sunovion, VNS Therapy, Eisai Company, Ltd., Lundbeck, Upsher-Smith, UCB, Inc., and GW Pharmaceuticals.

About Epilepsy

When a person has two unprovoked seizures or one unprovoked seizure with the likelihood of more, they are considered to have epilepsy. Epilepsy affects 3 million people in the U.S. and 65 million worldwide. This year, another 150,000 people will be diagnosed with epilepsy. Despite all available treatments, 4 out of 10 people with epilepsy continue to experience uncontrolled seizures while many more experience less than optimal seizure control.

About the Epilepsy Foundation

The Epilepsy Foundation, a national non-profit with nearly 50 affiliated organizations throughout the U.S., has led the fight against seizures since 1968. The Foundation is an unwavering ally for individuals and families impacted by epilepsy and seizures. The mission of the Epilepsy Foundation is: to lead the fight to overcome the challenges of living with epilepsy and to accelerate therapies to stop seizures, find cures, and save lives. The Foundation works to ensure that people with seizures have the opportunity to live their lives to their fullest potential. For additional information, please visit epilepsy.com.

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