New Hope in Epilepsy Research: What Families Should Know in 2026

From high school to college to working and acting in plays, epilepsy doesn't always stop one from life.
For those that do, we pray and hope a cure is near.

For families living with epilepsy, every breakthrough brings renewed hope. While seizures can sometimes feel unpredictable and overwhelming, researchers and physicians around the world continue making important progress in treatments, technology, and understanding the brain.

At Angels4Epilepsy, we believe families deserve encouragement, education, and hope, especially children who may feel different or scared because of their diagnosis.

Exciting Developments in Epilepsy Care

This year, researchers are focusing on several promising areas:

AI-Powered Seizure Detection

New technology is helping doctors better detect and understand seizures using:

• wearable devices
• advanced EEG monitoring
• artificial intelligence systems

Some wearable systems can now alert caregivers when seizure activity is detected, especially during sleep. Researchers hope future technology may even predict seizures before they happen.

Brain Stimulation Treatments

For children and adults whose seizures are difficult to control with medication alone, doctors are increasingly using neurostimulation devices. These devices work by sending electrical signals to help interrupt abnormal brain activity.

Long-term studies continue showing positive results for many patients with drug-resistant epilepsy.

New Medication Research

Scientists are also working on:

• medications with fewer side effects
• therapies targeted to specific seizure types
• treatments designed around genetics and personalized medicine

Researchers are even exploring how ketogenic diet science could someday lead to “keto-inspired” medications without the strict diet restrictions.

Encouragement for Children Living with Epilepsy

If you are a child with epilepsy reading this:

• You are not alone.
• You are not broken.
• You are stronger than you realize.

Many children with epilepsy grow up to become teachers, nurses, artists, athletes, scientists, parents, and leaders. Epilepsy is only one part of your story — it does not define your future.

It is also important to remember:

• Some children continue to show EEG spikes even when seizures are controlled.
• Healing journeys look different for everyone.
• Progress in epilepsy research is happening faster than ever before.

Supporting Families Beyond Seizures

Epilepsy affects more than the brain. It can impact:

• school
• sleep
• anxiety
• confidence
• friendships
• family stress

That is why organizations like Angels4Epilepsy work to support awareness, compassion, education, and encouragement for families navigating these challenges every day.

A Message of Hope

Every EEG, every doctor visit, every medication adjustment, and every difficult day tells a story of resilience.

And today, there is more hope than ever before.

Research is advancing.
Technology is improving.
Awareness is growing.

Most importantly, children with epilepsy continue proving every day that they are capable of extraordinary things.

💜 From all of us at Angels4Epilepsy:

Keep believing.
Keep advocating.
Keep shining.

First Annual: Inaugural United Hearts Gala May 30th at 7 pm - 10 pm in Evansville Area

In the Evansville, Indiana area? Join the First Annual: Inaugural United Hearts Gala May 30th at 7 pm - 10 pm.

Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. will be one of the sponsors! We moved to southern Indiana a few years ago and have been adjusting to all of life's changes but we are moving forward with a new chapter, new people, and new initiatives! We've delivered in the southern Indiana in the past and will have a brand new plan to reach out to children and families.

Join us for an unforgettable evening where passion meets purpose—bringing together charities, nonprofits, businesses, and community leaders as one heart, one community.

This special night is designed to spark connection, inspire collaboration, and create lasting impact throughout our community.

 May 30, 2026
 Doors Open: 5:30 PM
 Gala: 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM
 Black Tie Event
 Sweetwater Event Center

 What to Expect 

• Charity & Organization Spotlights – Each nonprofit/organization will have 5 minutes to share their mission, impact, and how the community can support them

• Community Partnership Wall – Post what your organization needs or how you can help others, creating real-time collaboration and connection

• Silent Auction – Support incredible causes through curated items and experiences

• Live Entertainment – An engaging and uplifting atmosphere throughout the evening

• Dinner & Networking – A fully catered experience included with your ticket

 A Night That Gives Back 
Every nonprofit or charity that purchases a ticket will be entered into a special end-of-night raffle, where one organization will receive 20% of the evening’s proceeds to support their mission.

This night is more than a gala…

It’s the beginning of something bigger—a movement to unite hearts, strengthen our community, and build lasting partnerships.

 Dress to impress and be part of something truly meaningful.

 Tickets are available now at the link below

For those interested in sponsor tables or sponsorship opportunities, please contact us directly—we would love to partner with you in making this event a success.

If interested, click here to find out more.

Latest Advances in Epilepsy Treatment - May 2026

Drug-Resistant Epilepsy & Brain Devices

A growing amount of data is supporting responsive neurostimulation (RNS) devices for people whose seizures are not controlled with medication. New long-term studies presented around the 2026 American Academy of Neurology meeting showed substantial seizure reduction with implanted systems like NeuroPace RNS. One post-approval study reported a median 82% seizure reduction at 3 years.

This is important because:

• Many patients plateau on antiseizure medications
• Neuromodulation is becoming more mainstream earlier in treatment
• Devices are increasingly using AI-like pattern detection for seizure interruption

AI & Seizure Detection Research

A new research dataset called “Seizure-Semiology-Suite” was released this week to help train AI systems to recognize seizure types from video and multimodal clinical data. Researchers reported that specialized AI models could classify epileptic vs. non-epileptic seizures with very high accuracy.

This could eventually improve:

• ER seizure triage
• Remote seizure monitoring
• Diagnostic support in underserved areas
• Wearable seizure alert systems

Wearable Monitoring Improvements

Empatica’s seizure monitoring ecosystem continues expanding. Their wearable epilepsy monitoring systems now integrate more advanced physiologic sensors and machine-learning-based seizure detection.

Wearables are becoming more useful for:

• nocturnal seizure detection
• seizure clustering analysis
• caregiver alerts
• long-term trend tracking

New Medication Targets

Researchers recently identified a new binding site on SV2A — the same epilepsy target used by medications like:

• Keppra
• Briviact

The discovery may help create next-generation antiseizure drugs with:

• fewer psychiatric side effects
• better seizure specificity
• improved drug resistance response

Ketogenic Diet Mechanism Breakthrough

Researchers at UVA recently identified more detail about why ketogenic diets can reduce seizures in medication-resistant epilepsy. They found receptor pathways that may eventually allow “keto-mimicking” drugs without requiring the restrictive diet itself.

That is significant because:

• keto diets are difficult to sustain
• GI side effects and nutritional issues are common
• a medication alternative could help pediatric and adult patients

Lamotrigine Safety Reassurance

A major Rutgers study found that Lamictal did not increase cardiac risk in older adults with epilepsy, despite prior FDA warnings.

That matters because many neurologists became cautious prescribing lamotrigine in people with heart conditions after the 2020 FDA advisory.

Experimental Cell Therapy

The FDA recently cleared a first-in-human stem-cell-derived therapy trial for focal epilepsy by Unixell.

This is still very early-stage research, but it represents movement toward:

• regenerative neurology
• targeted brain repair
• potentially disease-modifying epilepsy treatments instead of purely suppressive medications

Emerging Medications in Pipeline

Several drugs are still being watched closely in epilepsy:

• Xenon’s potassium channel seizure drug candidate
• BMB-101 for absence seizures and developmental epilepsies
• Continued fenfluramine data for Lennox-Gastaut syndrome

One disappointment:

• Takeda discontinued development of soticlestat after FDA review concerns.

Given your background and your advocacy work with epilepsy awareness, the AI + wearable monitoring direction is probably one of the biggest shifts happening right now. The field is increasingly moving toward:

• continuous physiologic monitoring
• predictive seizure modeling
• individualized seizure clustering analysis
• closed-loop intervention systems

rather than only “take medication and wait.”

Angels4Epilepsy, Inc is BACK!

It's been awhile since we posted but we are finally back and hope to start posting more great things we have been doing during the time out.

Stay tuned for a new delivery and photos!

I Have Epilepsy. It Doesn't Have Me Book by Our Founder

Did you know that Jamie authored a book when she was a young child to show other children what it was like for her after being diagnosed with Benign Rolandic Epilepsy (BRE)? She provided input in the book her mother wrote when she was only six years old. We have been extremely excited her journey has been shared with so many and hope others might try the book themselves. We have donated a copy to our local library as well. 

Are you a librarian and want a copy for your library? If so, contact us!

I Have Epilepsy. It Doesn't Have Me by Jamie Bacigalupo and J. A. Price is available at Amazon, Barnes & Nobles and other retailers at a very low price.

Angels4Epilepsy, Inc & Asthma Too Young Sisters Going to See TaylorSwift

Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. & Asthma Too sisters are gearing up to see Taylor Swift and they couldn't be more happier!  I won the tickets and was so thrilled to tell them about the win today.  What a great reward for all their work in delivering smiles to children with epilepsy and asthma.

Young Sisters Deliver Kohls Cares Animals to Epilepsy EEG Center

The girls were very happy to make a delivery of Kohls Cares animals they purchased to their nieces' neurologist office for children undergoing EEGs.  As a bonus, Jamie was able to see her FAVORITE neurologist she had when she was younger.  

Raise Epilepsy Awareness with Bravelet Bracelets and Support @Angels4Epilepsy, Inc.

Bravelets has new bracelets for a limited time with $10 going back to Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. to deliver more stuffed animals to children with epilepsy and/or asthma.  Check them out today and help us out while raising epilepsy awareness by wearing a bracelet!

Check out our other epilepsy awareness products:

How to Start a Non-Profit/Charity Website/Blog in Three Easy Steps

Affiliate links for Bluehost and Elegant Themes, Inc. are included below. 

I've been involved in non-profit/charities since 2008 and have learned a lot from this.   I will admit that I haven't pushed myself to the extent that I should have to make a bigger impact but I also know how to get set up and move forward.  I've had many people ask how to get started with creating a non-profit and how to start up a blog so I decided to share my experiences and will note that I have included my affiliate links in the how to section.  My passion began with personal experiences that catapulted my girls into doing good for others thanks to epilepsy and asthma.  Both my girls were diagnosed for the first time with their respective conditions in 2008 which resulted in some scary times as well as many hospitalizations.  Due to those experiences, we wanted to raise awareness and give back so we started Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. that has evolved unofficially into Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. & Asthma Too.  Since starting the non-profit, we could have really added on more causes as my youngest had some cardio issues, my granddaughter has epilepsy and my oldest has ovarian cancer.  I also help a dear friend with pediatric cancer causes as well and donate my time in the form of graphic work.  I'm still learning though!

Back to the original topic:  So you want to create a non-profit/charitable cause blog in three easy steps.

1.  Domain Name and Hosting Company - Affiliate Link Below

This step is crucial because once you decide on a name, you really don't want to change it because that means changing everything.  You don't want to lose out on all the work you already put in establishing your brand, your website and any literature you might have already printed.  This step might not be hard if you already have incorporated and obtained or applied for 501(c)(3) status.  This is where asking people you know for ideas can really pay off as you never know who might have a really creative idea!

Once you settle on a name, go to Bluehost and see if the domain is available.  Bluehost for WordPress starts at an affordable $3.49 a month and has unlimited hosting, space, file transfer, domain name, site builder with easy to use templates and free instant set up.  If you have no experience with building websites, this is an easy way to get started without losing a lot of money.  I wished I had known about Bluehost when I got started because I would have saved a lot of time and headaches.  In case you didn't know. WordPress is the go to place for many bloggers.

As you select your domain and input it in the box, you have a drop down box to select if you want .com, .co, .net, .org and so forth.  This is where you want to be careful because nearly everyone is still tempted to type in .com in the address bars so you might want to reconsider if your chosen name for the common ones are already taken to avoid missing out on potential patrons or people you could be helping.  Already have a domain name?  No problem as they have that option too.

Once your selected domain name is confirmed, you then have the option to choose a plan.  Each has their own benefits and if you aren't quite ready to understand the pro's and con's since you are just getting started, I would recommend going with the first one with an upfront payment that equals $3.49 a month.  This will easily get you on your way!

Next is where will you host your page?  I like simplicity which is why I think Bluehost is the way to go since they offer this service.  If you host through Bluehost, you get your domain for free which is a win-win.  They also provide a nice Domain Whois Privacy that will shield your personal information from being out on the web for everyone to see.  You may not have issues with that as you start up but you never know as that could change so why not avoid having your personal information out for all to see?  

Your package information provides options such as account plan, domain privacy fees, site back up pro, domain security and more.  You can always upgrade later if you want.  I like the paid option for search engine jumpstart to get your site out there to a wider audience faster rather than later.

Step one is now done!  It wasn't that bad was it?  It might seem a bit overwhelming but it's now done and the more you learn, the more you will know how to tweak based on your needs.

2.  Installing WordPress

Your next big step is installing WordPress to get your charitable/non-profit website visible.  WordPress is what you call blogging software.  It's your pen and paper and best yet, it's easy to use!

Login to your Bluehost account and scroll down to the Software/Services section on the first page until you see the WordPress logo and click.

Click the option to install a brand new version on the next page.

Step 1:  The next screen provides options for selecting which version of WordPress you want and I would select the recommended version available.

Next is the option to select where you want to install WordPress.  In the first box, type in your selected domain name such as:  http://pediatriccancerbearawareness.org and leave the second box to the right empty.

Step 2:  You can skip adding advanced options at this point until you learn more about the processes.

Step 3:  Tick the legal information box (after reading all the information) and click on complete.

Note:  You might receive a warning about overwriting existing files, click on the overwrite existing files.

This is one of the biggest pieces of advice I can give you, keep a book of your important details associated with your non-profit/charity.  This includes noting the login URL, username and password.  It will save you many headaches in trying to login later.

Now you are all ready to create your special niche on the web!

3.  Creating a Website - Affiliate Link Below

It's time to decide how you want your new website to look.  There are WordPress templates you can start out with or you can purchase or download free templates from the web.  The entire HTML business can be daunting for the inexperienced and one extra character or deletion can mess up your whole page so be careful with this!  This is why Elegant Themes is perfect.  They provide eye catching blog themes at various price plans to fit a budget.  If you prefer to change your's up routinely, you might want to consider purchasing all themes for one price and there is a 30 day money back guarantee. 

Here are a few of my favorites:

Evolution

SimplePress

MyCuisine

Lucid

In summary, it's best to have your charity registered in your state and to obtain 501(c)(3) status with the IRS.  People are more likely to donate to organizations that can be verified as well as to have donations that are tax deductible.

Determine a good name for your charity and like minded blog/website address.  Select your hosting site and we recommend Bluehost (affiliate link) as with a package, they provide the domain and the hosting.  Install Wordpress and select a theme for your blog via WordPress or company like Elegant Themes (affiliate link). 

I'll be following up with some tips on setting up a charity if you want IRS status for your charity.  Many donors prefer to donate to organizations that are recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) for tax deduction purposes.

Until then, here are some quick tips:

Define your mission statement closely with your desired domain name.  The mission statement will be evolving as you more forward or it may stay the same.  When you request grants and other financial assistance, the sponsor will request your mission statement.

If you decide to incorporate and file for 501(c)(3) status, check around your local community as often times, attorneys are willing to assist in filing the incorporation status and IRS documentation pro bono. 

Start thinking about a board of directors and this will vary from state to state.  Each state has free resources available to help guide in the formation of a corporation so take advantage of those.

I had a local attorney create the incorporation papers for our charity but I did submit the paperwork to the IRS on my own.  You will need several hundreds of dollars to incorporate and to file for non-profit status.

Many people are having success with the GoFundMe type accounts so you never know, you might too.  

Network with a like minded larger charity to gain invaluable experience and tips.  

As you create your blog, you will want to start creating accounts on other social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, Google+, Pinterest, Instagram, etc.  The more you can get your name out there, the better but don't feel you have to have it all done at once as you will be overwhelmed.

Start thinking about a logo and how you want it to look.  You can create your own at first or if you have the funds, there are many places that can create one for you.  A great eye catching, professional logo will help to carry a professional image for your cause.

Reformulation of Marketed Drugs Expected to Boost the Epilepsy Market in the US by 2019: TechNavio

LONDON--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

The Epilepsy Market in US is expected to post a CAGR of 4.85 percent from 2014-2019, growing in response to serious unmet medical need in the sector.

About the Report

According to a new report from tech focused research firm TechNavio, reformulation of marketed drugs will be a major trend to watch in this market over the projected period. Drug delivery systems like transdermal patches, ER formulations and orally disintegrating tablets help increase the efficacy of drugs either by increasing patient compliance or by increasing the bioavailability of the drug.

“New-generation anti-epileptic drugs offer efficacy along with enhanced tolerability, pharmacokinetic properties and reduced side effects as compared to traditional drugs,” says Ghaus.

Key Information Covered in the Report:

• Market segmentation, size and forecast through 2019
• Market Growth Drivers:
  • Unmet Medical Needs
  • For a full detailed list, view our report.
• Market Challenges:
  • Generic Erosion
  • For a full detailed list, view our report.
• Market Trends:
  • Reformulation of Marketed Drugs
  • For a full detailed list, view our report.
• Key Vendors:
  • GlaxoSmithKline plc
  • Pfizer Inc.
  • UCB SA
• Other Prominent Vendors:
• Abbvie
• Eisai
• F. Hoffmann-La Roche
• H. Lundbeck
• http://finance.yahoo.com/news/reformulation-marketed-drugs-expected-boost-163000802.html

Researchers identify brain differences linked to epilepsy-associated anxiety

According to results published in the medical journal Epilepsia, patients with epilepsy and anxiety were generally found to have larger volumes in the left amygdala – an almond-shaped mass of nuclei within the temporal lobe of the brain – than those without anxiety.

When cortical thickness was analysed, it was also revealed that thinning in the left medial orbitofrontal, right lateral orbitofrontal and right frontal poles could all be observed in those with anxiety.

Although there were no differences between groups in terms of age, sex, IQ, age of onset, medications or duration of epilepsy, family background was shown to be an influencing factor. Those in the epilepsy with anxiety group generally had more family members with a history of anxiety disorders.

The researchers concluded: “These findings are evident early in the course of epilepsy, are not related to chronicity of seizures, and may be linked to a family history of anxiety and depressive disorders.”

Findings such as this could aid future treatment and diagnosis of generalised anxiety disorder, which affects around one in 25 people in the UK. Since epilepsy patients are often particularly susceptible to mental health issues, this will be seen as a positive step.

http://www.epilepsyresearch.org.uk/researchers-identify-brain-differences-linked-to-epilepsy-associated-anxiety/

Interview with a Seven Year Old Asthma & Epilepsy Advocate & Chance to Win $10 iTunes Gift Card

My So Called Homeschool Life is running a $10 iTunes gift card giveaway while showcasing our little dynamo asthma and epilepsy advocate, Danielle!  Take a peek and read about how this little seven year old got started in wanting to serve and maybe even win a stocking stuffer!

Thank you for interviewing and raising awareness for asthma!

Young Sisters' Non-Profit @Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. & Asthma Too Send Child with #Epilepsy a Gift Package

The girls sent this package as well to this little beauty! She's reading Jamie's book about her life with epilepsy available online at Amazon.

Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. & Asthma Too is a way for two sisters to deliver smiles to other children that have their same diagnosis.

I Have Epilepsy. It Doesn't Have Me. 

http://www.amazon.com/dp/1475165846/ref=cm_sw_r_tw_dp_daOAub0FD

Up to 60% Off Custom Cookies, Jewelry, Shirts and More to Raise #Epilepsy Awareness

UP TO 60% OFF + 15% Off All Orders - 'Tis The Season SALE!   Ends Friday, November 21, 2014 with code: TISTHESEASON   

Custom Epilepsy Awareness Cookies to Support Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. & Asthma Too

Two new products available that will help Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. & Asthma Too raise money are now available.  Use SUNDAYDEAL62 to save 50% on 11/16/2014!

Someone I Love Needs a Cure for Epilepsy Cookies 

In the Fight Against Epilepsy Cookie

Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. & Asthma Too Sisters Deliver to Child with #Epilepsy and/or #Asthma

The girls sent this package as well to this little beauty!

Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. & Asthma Too is a way for two sisters to deliver smiles to other children that have their same diagnosis.

Big Thanks to Pear.com and Johnsonville for Grant

Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. & Asthma Too are excited to announce we were able to win a grant for almost $500!  We would like to thank our supporters for making this happen and wanted to thank Pear.com and Johnsonville!

To learn more about how your non-profit or group can participate, visit pear.com!

Siblings Deliver to Another Child with Epilepsy and/or Asthma for Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. & Asthma Too

Girls Deliver Build-A-Bear Bears and Backpacks to the Augusta, Georgia Ronald McDonald House

The girls took some time while waiting for the nephew to be born and delivered to the Augusta Augusta Ronald McDonald House with their niece who also has epilepsy. They delivered 20 Disney Princess mini backpacks, 20 Marvel Comics mini backpacks and 20 Build-A-Bear Workshop little bears they donated.

#epilepsy #asthma #ronaldmcdonaldhouse

Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. & Asthma Too Sends Little Boy with Epilepsy and His Family to Epilepsy Awareness Day at Disney

Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. & Asthma Too were happy to provide four one-day tickets to a child with epilepsy and his family to attend the Epilepsy Awareness Day at Disneyland Resort 2014 this year! 

He had a great time from what we hear!

Angels4Epilepsy, Inc. & Asthma Too Sisters Deliver to Little Girl with Epilepsy