Epilepsy New Zealand

15/02/2026

Myths Vs Fact - Mini Series 5
Myth- If you have epilepsy, so will your children.
This one is something that can have a heavy impact on any prospective parent who has epilepsy, but before jumping to conclusions, find out more. Yes, some epilepsies are hereditary, but while even these types of epilepsy have a strong genetic basis, a family history does not guarantee that a child will develop the condition, but rather indicates a higher susceptibility. Many types of epilepsy are NOT hereditary, so it is always best to consult with a medical professional to find out more about the type of epilepsy you have.

14/02/2026

Drop In Session Richmond

Just a reminder that Theresa will be at Richmond Library on Tuesday, 17 February for my monthly Epilepsy Chill & Chat session.
⚠️ Please note the change of time due to work in the library
On this occasion, the session will run from 5:00–6:00pm.
This is a relaxed, informal drop-in session and is open to everyone.
No appointment is needed.
I look forward to seeing you there.
Theresa -Please call me if you want to know more. 022 0667121

12/02/2026

Myths Vs Fact - Mini Series 4
Misconceptions surrounding epilepsy continue to persist, but we can work together to try to change that. These misunderstandings typically arise from insufficient information and communication. The more we talk about it and share we hope to dispel myths and enhance awareness around the condition.

12/02/2026

Free Courses Run By Care Matters
These are not run by Epilepsy New Zealand but another service we work alongside. The courses provide current, relevant, and practical information for family, whānau and carers of children and adults with disabilities.

The sessions focus on the topic of New Diagnosis, What Now? Key themes include:
Funding
Exploring a diagnosis
Wellbeing
Who does what
Your rights

Please register if interested
Call Care Matters
0508 726 769
Email: moemoe@carematters.org.nz

See poster for further details.

12/02/2026

Today our Thursday Thank You goes to the Eastern and Central Community Trust.

Covering from Hawkes Bay to Horowhenua, they provide community funding for all manner of groups, large and small.

We're grateful for their grant supporting the work of Jenny and Judith in their communities. Epilepsy can affect anyone, and for people in rural communities it can bring additional challenges. It's great to be able to offer them support with the help of funders like this.

Thank you.

Community funding and grants for grassroot community organisations in Tairāwhiti, Hawke’s Bay, Tararua, Wairarapa, Manawatū, and Horowhenua.

10/02/2026

Myths Vs Fact - Mini Series 3

Misunderstandings about epilepsy still exist, but together we can change that. These misconceptions often come from a lack of information and communication. Let's spend the next month busting myths and sharing the truth to build awareness.
By posting these messages on your social media, you’ll help spread the word, get ready for Purple Day in March, and inspire meaningful conversations and understanding.

10/02/2026

Angus Mabey Talks on the Aotearoa Rugby Pod
Angus is already filling the boots of becoming a great ambassador for Epilepsy, taking every opportunity to talk about his epilepsy and raising awareness of others and Epilepsy New Zealand.
If you like your rugby, you can listen to the whole Rugby podcast or jump to around the 50:00 mark in the video to listen to Angus talk about his own journey with Epilepsy about Epilepsy NZ and our 70th anniversary. What a great ambassador Angus is for Epilepsy. 💜💜mabey


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bmyZMEq926I&t=5s
Aotearoa Rugby Pod

Stuff and Aotearoa Rugby Pod brings you the lowdown on the Super Rugby new season, with James Parsons, Bryn Hall and Ross Karl. Plus, we break down the effec...

09/02/2026

Are You Getting Ready For Purple Day❓

It's time to get organised. Would you like to hold a Purple Day event in March? (It does not need to be on the 'official day of the 26th March)
Please go to our website link below to sign up and receive some promo goodies for your event.
https://epilepsy.org.nz/you-can-help/fundraise/purple-day/

08/02/2026

TODAY IS INTERNATIONAL EPILEPSY DAY
International Epilepsy Day is a special event held on the second Monday in February each year, bringing communities together from all over the globe. It's a time to shine a light on epilepsy and the challenges faced by those living with it, along with their families and caregivers. This day is a wonderful opportunity to promote understanding and compassion, encouraging everyone to learn more about epilepsy and how they can support those affected.
The International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) and the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) have teamed up for this important cause, with representatives in over 140 countries. Together, they work tirelessly to create a world where people with epilepsy feel understood and supported.
By joining forces across borders, they can tackle the stigma often associated with epilepsy.
On International Epilepsy Day, let's spread the word and raise awareness in our communities and gear ourselves up for Purple Day in March. Whether it's by hosting a local event, sharing information online, or simply having conversations with friends and family, every effort counts.

07/02/2026

Get Your Listening Ears On👂🏼👂🏽

Why not tune in to The Breeze and the 'House of Wellness Show' this Sunday 8th February at 9am? Sit back and listen to Epilepsy NZ’s long-term supporter Dr Peter Bergin, who will be talking about epilepsy, in celebration of International Epilepsy Day on 9th February.
It’s a great listen for anyone wanting to learn more about epilepsy and help break down stigma.
Please tune in and share to help spread awareness. 💜
If you miss the episode you can tune in later for the recording here
https://www.rova.nz/radio/the-breeze/shows/house-of-wellness-show
or on listen via Spotify at a later date https://open.spotify.com/show/7L0uf36n9kKS1IPnY6uIVj

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Health & WellnessPsychologist Sara Chatwin's top tips to cope with Christmas stressPlus, we revisit our favourite chats with Paddy Gower, Dr Libby, Hayley Holt and more.

06/02/2026

A Rotorua family faces an agonising wait for their 17-year-old son to wake up from his third coma in a month as he battles a rare drug-resistant form of autoimmune epilepsy.
To read the full story, please click on the link.

The Quilty family from Rotorua have had their lives turned upside down over the past five years by 17-year-old Ryan's devastating drug-resistant epilepsy.

05/02/2026