Advocacy

We advocate to ensure that each client is not only having their needs met — but that their voice is being heard.

Standing Up for People with Epilepsy

Epilepsy can create several challenges and can sometimes leave clients feeling hopeless or that they have nowhere to turn. We're here to change that.

Disability Applications

We help clients navigate the process of applying for disability benefits or appealing a decision. Our staff can assist with paperwork and represent your interests throughout the process.

Educational Representation

We can represent a client in an educational planning meeting — including IEP meetings and 504 plan discussions — to ensure students with epilepsy receive the accommodations they need.

Legislative Awareness

We work to increase awareness of epilepsy and epilepsy-related issues with legislators and representatives at the local, state, and national level so that policy reflects the real needs of our community.

Work & School Issues

We assist clients who are facing challenges in the workplace or at school related to their epilepsy diagnosis — including discrimination, accommodation requests, and employment rights.

APPLY NOW

Teens Speak Up! — Nominations Are Open

Teens Speak Up! (TSU) is one of the Epilepsy Foundation of America's signature advocacy initiatives. Selected teens travel to Washington, D.C. for advocacy training and meet with members of Congress to share their stories and represent the epilepsy community.

The 2027 TSU event takes place April 11–13, 2027 in Washington, D.C. Travel, lodging, and most meal expenses are covered for each selected teen and one family member.

National eligibility requirements:

  • ✓ Must self-nominate
  • ✓ Ages 13–17 as of April 11, 2027, at least in middle school
  • ✓ Must reside in the United States
  • ✓ Must commit to full in-person participation in April 2027 and the Year of Service

Sibling spots available:

If a teen with epilepsy is unable to travel due to health or disability concerns, a limited number of spots are available for eligible siblings — including siblings who have lost a brother or sister to epilepsy.

EFSETN Local Requirements:

  • ✓ Must have a medical diagnosis of epilepsy
  • ✓ Must be a rising sophomore or junior in high school
  • ✓ Must live in one of the ten counties served by EFSETN: Hamilton, Marion, Grundy, Bledsoe, Bradley, Rhea, Polk, McMinn, Sequatchie, or Meigs
Apply at epilepsy.com/tsu

Need an Advocate?

Epilepsy can create several challenges and can sometimes leave clients feeling hopeless or that they have nowhere to turn. If you are in need of an advocate or case management, please contact one of our staff — we are here to help.

Call (423) 260-9378 Send Us a Message