Last week Esther (our current epilepsy advisor) and Maria Lowe had a fantastic time with Craig from Raglan Community Radio. They had a wide ranging chat about everything from what is epilepsy itself to the petition we’ve put before parliament on providing access to the VNS implant for those with intractable epilepsy in New Zealand. Craigs show can be found here. If you wish, visit
Read More »
Population studies have revealed that slightly more men than women have epilepsy. This may be because of a higher rate of cerebrovascular disease (such as strokes), head trauma incidents, or alcohol and drug related issues, for example. Men with epilepsy also have a higher rate of anxiety and depression than men who do not have the condition. However, there is hope in men finding the
Read More »A Government review of the Charities Act 2005 began in 2019. EWCT made an initial submission in 2019. The second submission by EWCT, in December 2022 as shown here, was in response to a first reading of the proposed new Act and associated key recommendations. EWCT and many other groups are highly critical of the proposed new Act and many of the key recommendations, and
Read More »The Accessibility for New Zealanders Bill is aimed at addressing the accessibility barriers faced by disabled people, tāngata whaikaha, and others, so they can live independently and participate fully in all areas of life. EWCT put forward a written and oral submission asking that the Bill redresses the many inequalities facing people living with epilepsy so that there is an improved quality of life for
Read More »
NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Notice is hereby given that the 2023 Annual General Meeting of Epilepsy Waikato Charitable Trust (EWCT) will be held at the Meeting Room, Trust Waikato building, 4 Little London Lane, Hamilton, on Tuesday, 12 September 2023, commencing at 6.30 pm. AGENDA Welcome by chairperson Apologies Confirmation of minutes of the previous AGM held on 13 September 2022* Matters arising Patron,
Read More »Please support the Epilepsy Waikato Charitable Trust’s (EWCT) latest petition to parliament. We need your vote/signature urgently please (before 18 June 2023). Sign the Petition Please share the petition to colleagues and friends who may also like to support it with their votes. Petition request: That the House of Representatives urge Whatu Ora Health New Zealand to fund vagal nerve stimulation (VNS) therapy for
Read More »
Having epilepsy does not necessarily mean that you cannot enjoy the adventures of air travel. With planning and thought it is possible to meet your epilepsy needs and enjoy what travel has to offer. If you can travel with a friend who understands your epilepsy it makes that adventure even better. Here are some tips to help you along the way. Wear personal identification to
Read More »
Some children find living with epilepsy challenging and may show their unhappiness in a number of ways such as becoming irritable or angry, or by becoming disruptive. All behaviour is a form of communication and as adults our first step in understanding any challenging behaviour is to fully understand what epilepsy is and how children can be impacted by seizures and medications. Also, some children
Read More »
Epilepsy is a complex neurological condition that can affect the quality of life for each individual living with it. However, with education and support it may be possible to improve the way in which those with the condition are able to live well. Once an epilepsy diagnosis has been made, and a treatment plan has been developed, then the next phase is about living well
Read More »
Writing an annual newsletter always gives us an opportunity to reflect on the year that was. 2022 was a somewhat busy one with meeting new clients, giving lots of epilepsy awareness talks and engaging in social activities. In other words, it is now business as usual although we must all be aware that Covid is still present in our communities. Last year we produced a
Read More »