On Wednesday, October 21, 2026, communities around the world will observe SUDEP Action Day, a day dedicated to increasing awareness of Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP) and promoting education that can help reduce risk and save lives.
SUDEP refers to the sudden, unexpected death of a person with epilepsy when no other cause of death is found. While SUDEP remains one of the most devastating and least understood consequences of epilepsy, research has shown that awareness, seizure control, and open conversations between patients, families, and healthcare providers can play an important role in reducing risk.
SUDEP Action Day serves as an opportunity to educate the public, support families affected by epilepsy-related deaths, and encourage individuals living with epilepsy to learn more about their personal risk factors. It is also a time to honor and remember those whose lives have been lost to SUDEP and to advocate for continued research and improved access to epilepsy care.
At the Epilepsy Association of Western New York, we believe that knowledge empowers individuals and families to make informed decisions about their health and well-being. Through education, advocacy, and support, we strive to ensure that every person affected by epilepsy has access to the information and resources they need.
This SUDEP Action Day, we encourage our community to:
- Learn about SUDEP and discuss concerns with healthcare providers.
- Share educational resources with family and friends.
- Support epilepsy awareness and research efforts.
- Honor the memory of those lost to epilepsy-related deaths.
- Join us in raising awareness throughout Western New York.
Together, we can help ensure that conversations about epilepsy include discussions about SUDEP, increase understanding, and work toward a future where no family experiences the loss of a loved one to epilepsy-related death.
For more information about SUDEP Action Day and epilepsy education programs, contact the Epilepsy Association of Western New York.
