On August 20, Marina Bryant represented MnDRIVE Brain Conditions and MINCEP at the Epilepsy Foundation’s regional walk in St. Cloud, Minnesota. The event brought together individuals living with epilepsy, their families, caregivers, advocates, healthcare professionals, and community members for a day focused on connection, awareness, and hope.
Events like the Epilepsy Foundation walk provide an important opportunity to meet people where they are, listen to their experiences, and share resources that can help support the epilepsy community. For MnDRIVE Brain Conditions and MINCEP, being present at these events is also an opportunity to help bridge the gap between research and the people who may ultimately benefit from it.
During the event, Marina connected with community members and shared information about the new research registry. The registry provides an opportunity for people interested in epilepsy research to become connected with potential future research opportunities.
By joining the registry, participants can be notified about future studies and opportunities for research participation. These connections are an important part of advancing epilepsy research because progress depends not only on innovative ideas and discoveries in the laboratory and clinic, but also on people who are willing to participate in research studies and clinical trials.
Every research participant has the potential to contribute something meaningful to what we understand about epilepsy. Participation can help researchers learn more about epilepsy, explore new approaches to treatment, and work toward better options for individuals and families affected by the condition. Over time, these partnerships between researchers and the community can help accelerate the path from discovery to improved care.
At MnDRIVE Brain Conditions, we believe that research is stronger when it is connected to the community it serves. Outreach events such as the Epilepsy Foundation walk allow us to build relationships, share information, learn from lived experiences, and make sure people know about opportunities to become part of the research process.
We are grateful to everyone who stopped by to connect with Marina in St. Cloud and to the Minnesota Epilepsy Foundation for bringing the community together. Together, through connection, participation, and research, we can continue working toward a future with better treatments and improved lives for people living with epilepsy.
