Kolbe community create epilepsy awareness
18 December 2023
Kolbe Catholic College’s Loyola House last month came together to celebrate the official launch of their new house charity, Epilepsy WA.
The event began with Kristy Cassidy, an epilepsy nurse and representative from the organisation, revealing the startling fact that one in 25 people are diagnosed with epilepsy at some point in their lives.
Former Head Boy and Loyola House Captain, Patrick Marshall shared his recent experience following his diagnosis. Joining Patrick, Kolbe staff members Mrs Shanassy and Mr Brendan Bomford also shared their personal journeys with epilepsy, discussing strategies to support friends and family affected by the condition.
Brendan, who has lived with Epilepsy for many years, expressed his appreciation for Loyola House’s collaboration with Epilepsy WA, emphasising the significance of having a platform to dispel stigma and share personal experiences.
He remarked, “The continuous support that Kolbe will be able to provide this amazing charity will help so many lives, including those students and families in our community living with Epilepsy.”
Echoing Brendan’s sentiments, Mya from Year 9 expressed pride in the school’s collective effort, saying, “This year, our school united to support Epilepsy WA as our house charity, and it’s been incredible to see the impact we’ve made together.” She highlighted not just the funds raised but also the culture of empathy and understanding fostered within the school community.”
For Miranda from Year 7, the decision to support Epilepsy WA aligned with the spirit of communal support embodied by Saint Maximilian Kolbe. She emphasised, “It is important that we help people in our community needing it, like Saint Maximilian Kolbe did in his life.”
As Epilepsy WA celebrates 60 years of aiding young children and adults, Loyola House is excited to stand in solidarity with them by fundraising for their cause. This partnership not only serves as a means of financial support but also symbolises a commitment to foster a community of compassion and understanding within the college.
About Epilepsy WA:
Epilepsy WA was established in 1963 by Hon Ruby Hutchison MLC, the first female in the Upper House of WA Parliament.
Ruby believed in a fair go for the 1 in 25 people who will be diagnosed with epilepsy, and so does Epilepsy WA.
They are a charitable organisation that relies heavily on the generosity of the WA community to keep their vital services available for the 27,000 West Australians currently living with epilepsy and their loved ones and the 1,500 new cases diagnosed each year.
They have been supporting the WA Community for 60 years and work tirelessly to raise vital epilepsy awareness, reduce stigma and to help people to better manage their epilepsy and to reduce their risk of epilepsy related harm.
For more information, go to https://www.epilepsywa.asn.au
