In this episode, we stare down the monster that has plagued our Epilepsy community for decades, SUDEP, or SUdden Death from EPilepsy. We present three tragic stories of SUDEP.
In the United States, there are 55 (and 1 in the UK) thousand Epilepsy-related deaths in the United States each year. Though that number includes accidents, Status Epilepticus, and suicides. Some studies suggest that a large portion of those deaths are actually attributed to SUDEP.
Most if not all cases of SUDEP are preventable. We can minimize our risks by reducing the number of seizures that we have.
Felix Murdin
We want to say thank you to all of the people who contributed their SUDEP stories as we researched this show. A special, “Thank you!”, though goes out to BBC Reporter, Sophie Pierce, who generously came on the show to talk about her son, Felix.
Sophie Pierce has written a book about her son, Felix. She’s currently trying to raise funds so she can self-publish it. If you can contribute, any help would be welcomed.
Sophie Pierce poses with her son, Felix. 
Felix Murdin passed away from SUDEP in 2017
Florence Griffith-Joyner
Florence Griffith Joyner (or “Flo-Jo”) was inducted to the Track and Field Hall of Fame before her death in 1998. Watch her break the World Record in 1988. Her records for the 100m and 200m are still unbeatable.
Cameron Boyce
Cameron Boyce, another victim of SUDEP, leaves a legacy through his Foundation.
Mission: The Cameron Boyce Foundation (est. 2019) honors the legacy of Cameron Boyce by reducing gun violence and curing epilepsy through digital campaigns, programmatic partnerships, and financial support. We believe that all young people should be empowered to change the world.
The Cameron Boyce Foundation
Supporting Epilepsy Research
Did you know that 40% of our profits from any product sold in our store are donated directly to Epilepsy Research?
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We would love to hear what you think
We would love to hear what you thought of this episode. You can reach out to us in the comments below, via social@brainablaze.com, OR on Twitter @BrainAblaze.
Thank you for listening and see you next time.
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2 Comments
Wendy Shaw · February 9, 2021 at 8:14 AM
Since my son Jon Shaw died – (SUDEP) I have set up a charity (no. 1189073) to help fund monitors, alarms and other safety equipment to help manage seizures and reduce the risk of SUDEP. I am aso working with my local MP and Cheshire Health Officials incl the CEO of Mid Cheshire Hospital Leighton to change the way information is shared with patients and families. I am determined to make a difference to the those living with epilepsy in memory of my lovey boy Jon. Forever 19
David Clifford · February 9, 2021 at 8:51 AM
We’re so sorry for your loss. Thank you so much for listening and raising awareness for SUDEP. We need more people like you and more charities like the one you created.