This is an exciting time in epilepsy research with the promise of tremendous breakthroughs just over the horizon. In the past, when someone was diagnosed with epilepsy, it was often regarded as an irreversible outcome. Treatment options were limited and hope for a better quality of life was minimal. Now we’re making strides with epilepsy research and continuing to move forward. As a result,a majority of people with epilepsy are living life seizure free.

The most commonly asked question about epilepsy research is:When will there be a cure? Most of us, when we think about research, imagine a solitary scientist holed up in a laboratory somewhere who suddenly comes up with a magical formula and shouts: “Eureka!”While the Hollywood version of events would be nice, we know that research is an ongoing process, which involves the dedication of the est and brightest working day and night to find new treatment options and, ultimately, a cure.

However, we still face challenges, especially in difficult financial times. Epilepsy Foundation President and CEO Eric Hargis said, “We hope to attract more determined and generous donors who realize the importance of these strategic initiatives. They will allow us to fund all worthwhile research programs, improve the lives of people with epilepsy and find a cure.”

In the following pages, you will see examples of research that is in he pipeline. Investigators are working on controlling or eliminating seizures and also on quality of life issues such as depression and medication side effects. For example, one study is developing tools to screen for depression in youth who have epilepsy, an often overlooked problem. Other research that we are supporting right now shows great promise in improving the detection and even prediction of seizures; effectively targeting and delivering medication for long-term management of epilepsy; and developing computer-based aids that will help patients make better and more informed decisions about their treatment options.

The Epilepsy Foundation is committed to encouraging and supporting innovation for recognized leaders in epilepsy research as well as young investigators just beginning their careers. These creative researchers are tackling crucial scientific challenges with bold ideas and inventive technologies that promise to overcome barriers.