NATIONAL — Epilepsy Alliance America (EAA) proudly announces the recipients of the 2026–2027 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund, a pivotal initiative recognizing students across the United States who are navigating life with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) while pursuing higher education. This year, 26 remarkable students have been awarded scholarships, marking another significant milestone in the program’s mission to foster academic achievement and community among individuals affected by this often-misunderstood condition.
n
Main Facts
n
A Beacon of Hope for Students with PNES
n
The announcement of the 2026–2027 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship recipients represents a vital moment for the PNES community. For 26 students, this scholarship translates into tangible support, easing the financial burdens associated with higher education and affirming their potential despite the unique challenges posed by PNES. Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures are debilitating events that can mimic epileptic seizures but are psychological in origin, often linked to trauma or stress. Living with PNES frequently involves a complex journey of misdiagnosis, stigma, and significant disruption to daily life, making the pursuit of demanding academic goals particularly arduous.
n
The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund, managed by Epilepsy Alliance America, stands as a testament to the belief that a diagnosis of PNES should not be a barrier to achieving educational aspirations. By providing financial assistance, the program empowers these students to focus on their studies, contributing to a brighter future for themselves and, by extension, inspiring others within the PNES community. The program’s very existence shines a light on PNES, promoting greater understanding and challenging preconceived notions about the capabilities of individuals living with the condition.
n
Diverse Cohort, Unified Resilience
n
The 2026–2027 scholarship recipients embody a diverse and inspiring group, hailing from a wide array of communities across the nation. Their geographic representation spans from the East Coast to the West, encompassing states such as New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Maryland, and Connecticut in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions; Texas, North Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, and Tennessee in the South; and Colorado, Arizona, Idaho, Oregon, California, Minnesota, and Montana in the West and Midwest. This extensive reach underscores both the nationwide impact of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund and the growing imperative for increased awareness and support for PNES across healthcare and educational systems throughout the country.
n
These students are pursuing a rich tapestry of post-secondary educational opportunities, reflecting their varied passions and career ambitions. While specific fields of study were not itemized, past cohorts and typical university enrollment trends suggest pursuits ranging from vital healthcare professions like nursing, psychology, and social work, to burgeoning fields in technology and engineering, creative arts, business administration, education, and liberal arts. This diversity highlights the broad spectrum of talent and aspirations within the PNES community.
n
The program’s flexibility is further demonstrated by its support for both full-time and part-time students. The majority of recipients are enrolled full-time, showcasing their commitment to an immersive academic experience, while a small but significant number attend part-time, allowing them to balance their studies with personal health management, work, or other responsibilities. This adaptability ensures that the scholarship can meaningfully support students at various stages of their educational journey, irrespective of their chosen path or pace. Scholarship awards for this cycle ranged from $600 to $1,000, strategically designed to support a greater number of students in a substantial way. These funds are versatile, applicable not only to tuition and housing but also to ancillary expenses critical for academic success, such as technology needed for coursework, books, and other essential supplies.
n
Chronology
n
The Genesis of a Vital Initiative
n
The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund is a remarkable testament to the vision and unwavering dedication of Dr. Lorna Myers. A distinguished clinical neuropsychologist and a leading expert in PNES, Dr. Myers recognized a profound gap in support for individuals living with this condition, particularly those aspiring to higher education. Understanding the significant challenges—medical, psychological, social, and financial—that PNES presents, she envisioned a mechanism to directly empower these students. The fund was established through Dr. Myers’s profound generosity, fueled by the royalties from her seminal work and publications related to PNES. This unique funding model ensures a sustainable and direct pipeline of support, embodying her lifelong commitment to advocacy and patient welfare.
n
From its inception, the fund was designed not merely as a financial aid program but as a catalyst for change. It aimed to challenge the pervasive lack of awareness and understanding surrounding PNES, which often leads to delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and profound isolation for those affected. By partnering with Epilepsy Alliance America, an organization with a broad national reach and a deep commitment to neurological health, Dr. Myers ensured the fund would be managed with expertise and integrity, reaching students across diverse demographics and geographic locations. The program began modestly, but with each passing year, it has grown in scope and impact, becoming a beacon of hope for an increasing number of students.
n
Milestones in Support and Awareness
n
The journey of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund has been marked by a consistent trajectory of growth and expanding influence. Since its establishment, the program has evolved from a nascent initiative into a nationally recognized resource, setting new benchmarks for supporting students with chronic health conditions. Early cycles of the scholarship focused on establishing robust application and selection processes, ensuring fairness and efficacy. As awareness of PNES began to slowly but surely penetrate broader healthcare and educational systems, so too did the number of applications to the fund.
n
Each year has seen a steady increase in both the quantity and quality of applications, reflecting a heightened recognition of PNES and a growing confidence among students that their unique struggles are acknowledged and supported. This growth is a direct indicator of the program’s success in reaching its target demographic and in fostering a sense of community. The fund has consistently adapted its operations to meet this rising demand, optimizing its outreach strategies and refining its review processes to accommodate a larger pool of deserving candidates. The 2026-2027 cycle, with 26 recipients, stands as a testament to this sustained expansion and the ongoing commitment of Epilepsy Alliance America and Dr. Lorna Myers to extending vital support to as many students as possible. This consistent growth underscores a significant milestone: the increasing validation of PNES as a legitimate, impactful condition deserving of dedicated support.
n
Supporting Data
n
The Landscape of PNES: Understanding the Condition
n
Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) are episodes that resemble epileptic seizures but are not caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Instead, they are psychological in origin, often manifesting as a physical response to underlying psychological distress, trauma, or stress. The prevalence of PNES is significant, with estimates suggesting it affects approximately 2 to 33 per 100,000 people, and accounts for 10-30% of patients referred to epilepsy centers for intractable seizures. Despite its prevalence, PNES remains widely misunderstood and frequently misdiagnosed, leading to years of inappropriate treatment, including unnecessary anti-epileptic medications, and significant psychological distress for patients.
n
Individuals with PNES face a multitude of challenges. The journey to an accurate diagnosis can be protracted, averaging 7 to 10 years for some patients, during which they may endure numerous medical tests, ineffective treatments, and a profound sense of invalidation. The stigma associated with both mental health conditions and seizure disorders further complicates their lives, often leading to social isolation, discrimination, and difficulties in academic and professional settings. Seizure episodes, which can be unpredictable and debilitating, disrupt daily routines, make employment challenging, and significantly impact academic performance. Furthermore, the psychological comorbidities often associated with PNES, such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD, add additional layers of complexity to managing the condition and pursuing long-term goals like higher education. The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund directly addresses these systemic barriers, offering not just financial aid but also recognition and validation for their struggle.
n
Impactful Investment: Scholarship Details and Reach
n
The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund strategically allocates awards ranging from $600 to $1,000, a range chosen to allow the program to support a greater number of students effectively. These funds are designed to be flexible, covering a spectrum of essential expenses beyond tuition. Recipients can utilize the awards for housing costs, which represent a significant portion of collegiate expenses, as well as for crucial ancillary expenses such as technology needed for coursework (laptops, specialized software), textbooks, and other academic supplies. This practical approach ensures that the scholarship directly alleviates financial pressure points that can impede academic progress for students living with PNES.
n
The competitive and thoughtful selection process is central to the fund’s integrity and impact. Each year, Epilepsy Alliance America receives a substantial number of applications from highly qualified students, far exceeding the available funding. The review committee, chaired by Patricia Gibson, MSSW DHL ACSW—a respected figure and national expert in PNES—employs a structured evaluation rubric. This process meticulously considers several key factors: financial need, academic achievement, the compelling nature of personal essays, and a demonstrated commitment to future goals. Financial need is assessed to ensure the scholarships reach those for whom the assistance will make the most significant difference. Academic achievement reflects the students’ dedication and capability despite their challenges. Personal essays provide invaluable insight into their journey with PNES, their resilience, and their motivations. Finally, a commitment to future goals underscores their long-term vision and potential impact. The committee itself is comprised of national experts in PNES, ensuring that applications are reviewed with a deep understanding of the unique experiences and needs of the applicants. This rigorous process guarantees that the awards are granted to individuals who are not only academically promising but also profoundly deserving of this vital support.
n
Beyond Financial Aid: Building Community and Validation
n
The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Program offers far more than just financial support; it cultivates a profound sense of connection and community that is often lacking for individuals with PNES. Many recipients share powerful testimonials about how the program provides not only essential assistance for their education but, crucially, also a deep sense of validation and encouragement. For years, many individuals with PNES have navigated their condition in isolation, feeling misunderstood by medical professionals, peers, and even family members. The scholarship program addresses this by creating a network where recipients can connect with others who truly comprehend their experiences.
n
This community-building aspect is facilitated through ongoing engagement, including virtual gatherings, online forums, and various outreach opportunities. These platforms allow students to share their stories, offer mutual support, exchange coping strategies, and celebrate their triumphs. The feeling of being understood and accepted by a peer group facing similar challenges can be transformative, helping to mitigate feelings of isolation, reduce self-stigma, and bolster self-esteem. As one hypothetical recipient might express, "The scholarship money was a lifesaver for tuition, but the real gift was realizing I wasn’t alone. Connecting with others who ‘get it’ has been incredibly empowering and has given me the confidence to push forward." This sense of belonging is an invaluable component of holistic well-being, proving that the scholarship’s impact resonates far beyond the immediate financial benefit, fostering resilience and long-term empowerment.
n
Official Responses
n
Voices from Epilepsy Alliance America
n
Representatives from Epilepsy Alliance America expressed immense pride and unwavering commitment to the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund. "We are incredibly honored to announce the 26 recipients of the 2026–2027 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship," stated a spokesperson for EAA. "These students exemplify extraordinary resilience, determination, and academic promise in the face of significant challenges posed by psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. Their journeys inspire us all and reinforce the critical importance of programs that not only provide financial aid but also foster a vital sense of community and validation."
n
The organization highlighted its dedication to expanding the program’s reach and impact. "Our mission at Epilepsy Alliance America is to ensure that individuals with PNES have every opportunity to thrive," the spokesperson continued. "Dr. Lorna Myers’s incredible generosity and vision have made this scholarship fund a cornerstone of our efforts. We recognize the growing need and are deeply committed to expanding this program, ensuring that even more deserving students can pursue their educational dreams without undue financial burden. Every scholarship awarded is a step towards a more inclusive and understanding society for those living with PNES."
Dr. Lorna Myers’s Vision and Dedication
Dr. Lorna Myers, the benevolent founder of the scholarship fund, shared her profound satisfaction and ongoing commitment to the program. "Witnessing the impact of these scholarships on the lives of these remarkable students is incredibly rewarding," Dr. Myers stated. "When I established this fund, my hope was to alleviate some of the immense pressures faced by individuals with PNES who aspire to higher education. To see 26 students empowered this year, representing such diverse backgrounds and academic pursuits, truly fills me with pride."
Dr. Myers further emphasized the unique challenges these students overcome. "Living with PNES presents a unique set of obstacles, from diagnostic delays and stigma to the unpredictable nature of seizures themselves. These scholarships are more than just financial aid; they are a recognition of their strength, their intelligence, and their unwavering spirit. It is my deepest wish that this support not only enables them to achieve their academic goals but also fosters a sense of belonging and empowers them to become advocates for themselves and others in the PNES community." Her continued dedication, fueled by royalties from her professional work, underscores a rare and powerful personal investment in the well-being of the PNES community.
Perspectives from the Selection Committee
Patricia Gibson, MSSW DHL ACSW, who chairs the rigorous review committee, offered insights into the selection process and the caliber of applicants. "Each year, the task of selecting recipients becomes more challenging, not due to a lack of deserving candidates, but because of the sheer volume and exceptional quality of applications we receive," explained Gibson. "The stories shared in their personal essays are profoundly moving, demonstrating incredible courage, resilience, and a clear vision for their futures despite the daily struggles of living with PNES."
Gibson elaborated on the committee’s dedication. "Our committee, comprised of national experts in PNES, approaches this process with immense care and a deep understanding of the unique needs of these students. We strive to identify individuals who not only demonstrate academic promise and financial need but also possess the intrinsic motivation to overcome adversity and contribute positively to society. It is an immense privilege to be part of a program that offers such vital support and validation, and we are continually inspired by the unwavering determination of every applicant." Her leadership ensures that the selection process remains fair, transparent, and focused on maximizing the scholarship’s impact.
Implications
Paving the Way for Future Generations
The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund holds significant implications for the broader PNES community and for inclusive education as a whole. By publicly recognizing and supporting students with PNES, the program actively works to dismantle the pervasive stigma often associated with both neurological and psychological conditions. Each scholarship awarded serves as a powerful statement that individuals with PNES are capable, intelligent, and deserving of every opportunity to succeed. This visibility encourages open dialogue, fosters empathy, and educates the wider public, including educators and healthcare providers, about the realities of living with PNES.
For current and future generations of students with PNES, the scholarship offers a tangible pathway forward. It provides a model of success, demonstrating that academic and career aspirations are attainable. By alleviating financial stress, it enables recipients to focus more intently on their studies, potentially leading to higher academic achievement and more robust career prospects. Over the long term, these empowered graduates will not only contribute to their chosen fields but may also become advocates, mentors, and leaders within the PNES community, inspiring others and pushing for further advancements in understanding, diagnosis, and treatment of the condition. The ripple effect of these scholarships extends far beyond the individual recipients, shaping a more informed and supportive society.
The Critical Need for Expanded Support
As the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund gains wider recognition and the number of qualified applicants continues to grow each year, so too does the critical need for additional funding. Epilepsy Alliance America remains steadfast in its commitment to expanding the program, ensuring that more students can receive the vital support they deserve. The reality is that for every student awarded a scholarship, numerous other deserving applicants cannot be funded due to resource limitations. This highlights a significant disparity between the growing need within the PNES community and the current capacity of philanthropic initiatives.
Community support plays an absolutely critical role in bridging this gap. Every contribution, no matter the size, directly translates into opportunities for students who might otherwise be forced to defer or abandon their educational dreams. Donations can help increase the number of scholarships awarded, raise the individual award amounts to cover a larger portion of expenses, or expand the program’s administrative capacity to reach more potential applicants. Epilepsy Alliance America actively encourages individuals, corporations, and philanthropic organizations to join Dr. Lorna Myers in her mission. Investing in these students is an investment in human potential, societal progress, and the ongoing fight against misunderstanding and stigma. Individuals interested in making a gift to support the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund are encouraged to visit the Epilepsy Alliance America website and contribute to this transformative cause.
A Model for Inclusive Education and Healthcare
The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund stands as an exemplary model for fostering inclusive education and healthcare practices. Its success demonstrates the profound impact that targeted, condition-specific support can have on marginalized student populations. Other organizations and institutions can draw valuable lessons from this initiative, particularly in how it integrates financial aid with community building and validation. The program emphasizes that supporting students with chronic or invisible conditions requires a holistic approach that extends beyond monetary assistance to address psychological and social needs.
By promoting accurate information about PNES and highlighting the achievements of those living with it, the scholarship fund contributes to a more equitable and informed educational landscape. It challenges universities and healthcare systems to better understand and accommodate the needs of students with PNES, fostering environments where they can thrive academically and personally. The program underscores the universal principle that access to education is a fundamental right, and that tailored support is essential to ensure this right for all, especially for those navigating complex health challenges. In its comprehensive approach and profound impact, the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund not only transforms individual lives but also paves the way for a more compassionate and inclusive future for education and healthcare globally.
