Epilepsy Foundation of Florida, Inc. awarded $75,000

The Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida recognizes community programs

Jacksonville, Fla. - The Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida, the philanthropic affiliate of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida (BCBSF), presented a $75,000 Award of Distinction to the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida during The Blue Foundation’s annual Sapphire Award event on Nov. 30 in Lake Buena Vista.  The Sapphire Award recognizes excellence in community health programs that have improved the health-related outcomes of Florida’s at-risk populations and communities. 

“The symbol of the Epilepsy Foundation of Florida is a flame which signifies the light of understanding epilepsy for a more accepting society and cure,” said Karen Basha Egozi, executive director of the Epilepsy Foundation. “In receiving this gift from The Blue Foundation our community health programs are recognized for their excellence and distinction. Our flame burns brighter today, and brings hope to over 360,000 people living with epilepsy in Florida.”

The Epilepsy Foundation provides medical, social and neuropsychological assistance; helps procure medications; offers employment counseling; and presents prevention and education outreach programs. Additional community services include epilepsy education for new teachers, bicycle helmet distribution, research with local and regional hospitals and universities, and assistance to recently arrived Cuban and Haitian refugees with epilepsy and their families.  The Epilepsy Foundation has also established unique relationships with primary care physicians, pediatricians and dentists to provide discounted medical and dental services to uninsured and underserved area residents.

“The Epilepsy Foundation of Florida develops effective and innovative community partnerships to reach the greatest number of people in need,” said Susan Towler, executive director, The Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida. “They have shown true leadership and excellence in addressing a health condition affecting hundreds of thousands of Floridians.”

To be eligible for The Sapphire Award, organizations must demonstrate excellence; have a record of improving the health of their community through measurable outcomes; be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the federal tax code; officially reside and be incorporated in the state of Florida; and have programs that are involved with health-related services.  Programs are nominated by three persons familiar with the organization and are reviewed by an independent selection committee made up of medical, public health and health communication experts from across the country and Florida.  Of the 42 organizations nominated for the 2007 Sapphire Award, one was named winner, three received awards of distinction and one received honorable mention. 

The Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida is a separate, philanthropic affiliate of BCBSF incorporated in the state of Florida. The Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida, and its parent, BCBSF, are independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association, an association of independent Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies. For more information on The Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida, please visit its web site at www.bluefoundationfl.com.