FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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[City, State] – [Date of Publication, e.g., June 15, 2026] – Epilepsy Alliance America (EAA) proudly announces the recipients of the 2026-2027 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund, a vital initiative designed to support students across the United States living with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) as they pursue higher education. This year, the program has recognized 26 exceptional individuals who embody resilience, determination, and a profound commitment to their academic and personal aspirations.
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The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund continues to grow in its reach and impact, serving as a beacon of hope and practical assistance for a population often facing unique challenges in their educational journeys. The awarded scholarships, ranging from $600 to $1,000, provide crucial financial aid for tuition, housing, and essential ancillary expenses, including technology vital for coursework. This thoughtful distribution allows the EAA to extend support to a greater number of students in a truly meaningful way, fostering an environment where individuals with PNES can thrive academically without undue financial burden.
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Main Facts: A Commitment to Educational Empowerment
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The core mission of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund is to alleviate the financial pressures on students diagnosed with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures, thereby enabling them to access and succeed in higher education. The 2026-2027 cycle marks another significant milestone for the program, with 26 students selected from a highly competitive pool of applicants.
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These scholarship recipients represent a diverse tapestry of backgrounds and aspirations, hailing from communities across the nation. Their journeys, while distinct, are unified by a shared strength: the unwavering ability to overcome the hurdles presented by PNES and steadfastly pursue their educational and career goals. The scholarship not only offers tangible financial relief but also delivers invaluable validation and encouragement, reinforcing a sense of belonging and understanding for those navigating life with a often-misunderstood condition.
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Epilepsy Alliance America, the managing body of the fund, emphasizes that this program extends far beyond mere financial aid. It cultivates a vital sense of community and connection among recipients, linking them with peers who share similar experiences—a lifeline many have previously lacked. Through ongoing engagement opportunities, including virtual gatherings, the program helps dismantle the isolation that can often accompany a PNES diagnosis.
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Understanding Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES)
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To fully appreciate the significance of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund, it is essential to understand the nature of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. PNES are episodes that may resemble epileptic seizures but are not caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Instead, they are typically a manifestation of psychological distress, often stemming from trauma, anxiety, depression, or other mental health conditions. Unlike epilepsy, PNES do not respond to anti-epileptic medications and require a distinct diagnostic and treatment approach, primarily focusing on psychotherapy and mental health support.
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The diagnostic process for PNES can be protracted and challenging, frequently involving misdiagnoses of epilepsy, leading to inappropriate medication and prolonged suffering. The stigma associated with both mental health conditions and seizure-like events further compounds the difficulties faced by individuals with PNES. This can impact their social interactions, employment opportunities, and crucially, their educational trajectories. Students with PNES often contend with the invisible burden of their condition, managing symptoms that can disrupt concentration, attendance, and overall academic performance, while also grappling with the societal misunderstanding that often accompanies their diagnosis. The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund directly addresses these systemic and personal challenges by providing targeted support that acknowledges the unique needs of this population.
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Chronology: A Growing Legacy of Support
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The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund was established with a clear and compassionate vision: to support students diagnosed with PNES in their pursuit of higher education. The program’s inception was made possible through the extraordinary generosity of Dr. Lorna Myers herself, a prominent figure in the field, who dedicates royalties from her extensive work to fund these annual scholarships. This direct and personal contribution underscores the profound commitment at the heart of the fund.
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Since its establishment, the program has embarked on a steady trajectory of growth, both in the number of students it supports and in its national footprint. Each academic cycle witnesses an increasing number of applications from highly qualified students, a testament to the escalating awareness of PNES and the critical need for specialized support systems. Epilepsy Alliance America has meticulously managed the fund, ensuring its efficient operation and broad reach, thereby transforming Dr. Myers’ philanthropic vision into tangible educational opportunities for students across the country.
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The consistent expansion of the fund reflects a broader societal shift towards greater recognition of PNES within healthcare and educational frameworks. What began as a focused initiative has evolved into a significant nationwide program, underscoring the escalating demand for resources tailored to the unique challenges faced by individuals with this condition. The year 2026-2027 represents another chapter in this evolving chronology, demonstrating the sustained impact and increasing relevance of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund.
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Supporting Data: A Snapshot of Impact
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The data from the 2026-2027 academic year paints a vivid picture of the scholarship fund’s expansive reach and the diverse group of students it empowers:
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Recipient Demographics and Geographic Diversity:nThis cycle, 26 students received scholarships, representing a broad geographical distribution across the United States. Recipients hail from a wide array of states, underscoring both the nationwide scope of the program and the increasing awareness of PNES across various regions. States represented include: New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Maryland, Connecticut, Texas, North Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Colorado, Arizona, Idaho, Oregon, California, Minnesota, and Montana. This extensive geographic spread highlights the pervasive need for such support and the fund’s success in reaching underserved communities.
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Educational Pathways and Institutions:nThe scholarship recipients are pursuing a diverse range of post-secondary educational opportunities, reflecting varied academic interests and career aspirations. While the specific fields of study are broad, they typically include areas such as healthcare (nursing, psychology), education, technology, arts, and business. This diversity illustrates that PNES does not limit intellectual curiosity or professional ambition.nThe students are enrolled in a wide spectrum of institutions, from large public universities, which often offer extensive academic programs and research opportunities, to smaller private colleges, known for their intimate learning environments and specialized curricula. This variety underscores the program’s adaptability in supporting students on their individual educational paths, regardless of institutional size or type.nThe majority of recipients are enrolled full-time, demonstrating their commitment to an intensive academic experience. A smaller, yet significant, number are attending part-time, showcasing the program’s flexibility in accommodating students who may need to balance their studies with health management, employment, or other personal circumstances. This inclusive approach ensures that the fund serves a wide range of students at different stages of their educational journey.
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Financial Impact and Allocation:nScholarship awards for this cycle ranged from $600 to $1,000 per student. This tiered approach allows Epilepsy Alliance America to maximize its impact, supporting a greater number of deserving students. The funds are strategically designed to cover a broad spectrum of educational expenses, directly addressing the financial barriers that can impede academic success for students with PNES. These include:
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- Tuition and Fees: Covering direct costs associated with enrollment.
- Housing: Assisting with accommodation expenses, whether on-campus or off-campus, which can be a significant portion of a student’s budget.
- Ancillary Expenses: Crucially, the funds can also be used for other vital costs such as textbooks, course materials, transportation, and particularly, technology needed for coursework. In today’s digital academic landscape, access to reliable computers and internet is non-negotiable, and this provision ensures that students are not disadvantaged by technological gaps.
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Competitive and Thoughtful Selection Process:
The selection process for the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund is rigorous and highly competitive, reflecting the significant demand and the commitment to identifying the most deserving candidates. Each year, Epilepsy Alliance America receives a volume of applications from qualified students that exceeds the available funding, highlighting the ongoing need for expansion.
Applications undergo a structured and comprehensive review that considers multiple facets of a student’s profile:
- Financial Need: Acknowledging that economic hardship can be a major barrier to higher education, particularly for those managing a chronic condition.
- Academic Achievement: Recognizing past academic performance as an indicator of future success.
- Personal Essays: Providing students with an opportunity to articulate their experiences with PNES, their educational goals, and how the scholarship will impact their journey. These essays are often powerful narratives of perseverance and aspiration.
- Commitment to Future Goals: Assessing the clarity and viability of the applicants’ long-term educational and career objectives.
The review committee, which is chaired by Patricia Gibson, MSSW DHL ACSW, is comprised of national experts in PNES. Their specialized knowledge ensures that applications are evaluated with a deep understanding of the unique challenges and triumphs associated with living with PNES, guaranteeing a fair and insightful selection process.
Official Responses: Voices of Dedication and Hope
The success and impact of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund are underscored by the dedicated efforts of Epilepsy Alliance America and the profound generosity of Dr. Lorna Myers.
A spokesperson for Epilepsy Alliance America expressed immense pride in the program’s ability to empower students: "We are incredibly proud to announce the recipients of the 2026-2027 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship. These students embody the spirit of resilience, navigating the complexities of PNES while striving for academic excellence. Our mission is not just to provide financial aid, but to foster a supportive community where these individuals feel seen, understood, and encouraged. The growing diversity of our recipients, both geographically and academically, is a testament to the increasing awareness of PNES and the crucial need for programs like this."
Dr. Lorna Myers, whose personal contribution fuels the scholarship fund, remains a driving force behind its mission. Her ongoing commitment, demonstrated by donating royalties from her work, highlights a deep-seated belief in the potential of these students. While often preferring to let the impact of her philanthropy speak for itself, her actions consistently communicate a powerful message of advocacy and support for the PNES community. Her foresight in establishing this fund has created a lasting legacy that directly transforms lives.
Patricia Gibson, MSSW DHL ACSW, who chairs the rigorous review committee, offered insights into the caliber of applicants and the significance of the award: "Each year, we are deeply moved by the stories and aspirations shared by our applicants. Their courage, intellectual curiosity, and unwavering determination in the face of PNES are truly inspiring. The selection process is exceptionally challenging because we receive so many highly qualified candidates. These scholarships are more than just financial assistance; they are a recognition of their strength and potential, providing a vital bridge to higher education that might otherwise be inaccessible. The ‘More Than a Scholarship’ aspect is particularly profound; it’s about building a network of support and validating their experiences, which is invaluable for individuals living with PNES."
Indeed, the anecdotal feedback from previous recipients consistently reinforces the program’s holistic impact. Many share that the scholarship provides not only essential financial assistance for their education but also a profound sense of validation and encouragement as they navigate life with PNES. The ongoing engagement through virtual gatherings and outreach opportunities connects recipients with others who genuinely understand their experiences—a sense of community that many have never encountered before, helping to combat feelings of isolation and misunderstanding.
Implications: Paving the Way for a Brighter Future
The implications of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund extend far beyond the individual recipients, resonating across the broader landscape of PNES awareness, mental health advocacy, and educational equity.
Empowering Individuals and Fostering Resilience:
For the 26 students awarded this year, the scholarship represents a tangible investment in their future. It alleviates financial stress, allowing them to focus more intently on their studies and personal growth. More profoundly, it instills a sense of belief and validation, empowering them to pursue their dreams despite the challenges of living with PNES. This empowerment translates into increased self-efficacy and a greater capacity to advocate for their own needs, both academically and personally.
Increasing Awareness and Destigmatization of PNES:
The very existence and public announcement of this scholarship program significantly contribute to increasing awareness of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. By highlighting the academic achievements and aspirations of individuals with PNES, the program helps to destigmatize the condition, challenging misconceptions and fostering a more informed understanding within society, healthcare, and educational institutions. This increased visibility can lead to earlier diagnosis, more appropriate treatment, and better support systems for those affected.
Catalyst for Educational and Healthcare System Recognition:
The national reach of the scholarship, with recipients from diverse states and institutions, signals a growing recognition of PNES across various healthcare and education systems. This can encourage institutions to implement better accommodations, resources, and understanding for students living with PNES, fostering more inclusive and supportive learning environments. The scholarship implicitly advocates for PNES to be considered within broader disability services and mental health support frameworks.
A Call to Action for Sustained Support:
As the number of 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 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund, with the goal of ensuring that even more deserving students can receive vital support in the future. This expansion is not merely an aspiration but a necessity, reflecting the increasing prevalence of PNES diagnoses and the ongoing barriers students face.
Community support plays an indispensable role in making this expansion possible. Every contribution, no matter the size, directly helps to ensure that individuals living with PNES have equitable access to the educational opportunities they rightfully deserve. Investing in these scholarships is an investment in human potential, fostering a more inclusive and understanding society.
Epilepsy Alliance America urges individuals, organizations, and philanthropic entities to consider supporting the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund. Donations directly impact the lives of students, enabling them to overcome challenges and contribute their unique talents to the world.
For those interested in making a gift to support the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund, please visit the Epilepsy Alliance America donation page: https://epilepsyallianceamerica.org/donate-2/
About Epilepsy Alliance America
Epilepsy Alliance America is a national network dedicated to providing services, support, and advocacy for people affected by epilepsy and seizure disorders. Through its member organizations, EAA strives to improve the quality of life for individuals with epilepsy and their families by promoting education, research, and community engagement. The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund is one of its flagship programs, reflecting its commitment to addressing the diverse needs within the seizure disorder community.
