FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
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[Date of Publication – e.g., June 15, 2026] – Epilepsy Alliance America (EAA) proudly announces the deserving recipients of the 2026–2027 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund. This vital program recognizes and supports 26 students across the United States who are navigating the complexities of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) while pursuing the transformative journey of higher education. The announcement marks a significant milestone in fostering academic achievement, providing crucial financial assistance, and elevating awareness for a condition often misunderstood and underrecognized.
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The 2026–2027 academic year sees a diverse and inspiring group of individuals honored, each demonstrating extraordinary resilience, unwavering determination, and a profound commitment to their educational and personal aspirations. These scholarships, ranging from $600 to $1,000, represent not just financial aid, but a powerful affirmation of their potential and a testament to their strength in overcoming significant challenges.
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A Beacon of Hope for Students with PNES
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The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund stands as a crucial pillar of support for students grappling with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. PNES, a condition characterized by sudden, involuntary episodes that resemble epileptic seizures but are not caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain, often carries a heavy burden of misdiagnosis, stigma, and misunderstanding. For students, this can translate into significant academic and personal hurdles, from managing symptoms and attending medical appointments to dealing with the psychological impact of their condition.
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This year’s 26 recipients exemplify the spirit of perseverance, proving that a diagnosis does not define one’s potential. Epilepsy Alliance America’s commitment to these students underscores the organization’s broader mission: to provide comprehensive support, promote understanding, and advocate for those living with epilepsy and related conditions, including PNES. The scholarship program, now a cornerstone of EAA’s initiatives, is a direct response to the urgent need for tailored assistance for this often-overlooked population.
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Understanding Psychogenic Non-Epileptic Seizures (PNES)
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To fully appreciate the impact of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship, it is essential to understand the nature of psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. Often referred to as "functional seizures," PNES episodes are physical manifestations triggered by psychological distress, trauma, or underlying mental health conditions rather than neurological abnormalities. While visually indistinguishable from epileptic seizures to the untrained eye, their etiology is distinct, requiring a different diagnostic and therapeutic approach.
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The Hidden Burden of PNES
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Individuals with PNES face a unique set of challenges that can profoundly impact their lives, particularly their educational pursuits. Misdiagnosis is tragically common, with many patients enduring years of inappropriate anti-epileptic medication before receiving an accurate diagnosis. This delay can lead to prolonged suffering, ineffective treatment, and a deepening sense of frustration and isolation. Once diagnosed, individuals often contend with a lack of public awareness, which can result in social stigma, discrimination, and a reluctance from others to acknowledge the legitimacy of their condition.
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The symptoms of PNES themselves can be debilitating, ranging from episodes of altered consciousness and motor convulsions to sensory disturbances, making consistent attendance and concentration in academic settings incredibly difficult. Beyond the physical manifestations, the psychological underpinnings of PNES often necessitate extensive therapy, which can be costly and time-consuming. These combined factors can create formidable barriers to higher education, making scholarships like the Lorna Myers Fund not just beneficial, but often indispensable for students striving to achieve their academic dreams. The scholarship’s recognition of PNES as a legitimate and challenging condition provides much-needed validation to those who often feel marginalized and misunderstood.
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The 2026-2027 Cohort: A Tapestry of Resilience
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The 26 scholarship recipients for the 2026–2027 academic year represent a vibrant cross-section of American ambition and courage. Their journeys, while distinct, are united by a shared commitment to education and an inspiring ability to persevere through adversity.
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Celebrating Diversity and Determination
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These students hail from a broad geographical expanse, underscoring the nationwide prevalence of PNES and the far-reaching impact of the scholarship program. Recipients represent communities from states including New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Maryland, Connecticut, Texas, North Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Colorado, Arizona, Idaho, Oregon, California, Minnesota, and Montana. This wide distribution not only highlights the national scope of the Epilepsy Alliance America’s efforts but also signals a growing recognition of PNES within healthcare and educational systems across diverse regions. Each state listed represents a unique story, a student overcoming localized challenges, and a community benefiting from increased awareness and support.
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Pathways to Higher Education
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The academic pursuits of this year’s scholarship winners are as varied as their geographic origins, reflecting a broad spectrum of interests and career aspirations. While specific fields of study were not detailed in the announcement, the recipients are engaged in a wide array of post-secondary educational opportunities. From STEM fields to humanities, arts, and vocational training, these students are actively shaping their futures. They are enrolled in both large public universities and smaller private colleges, demonstrating the program’s flexibility in supporting diverse academic pathways. The majority are attending full-time, a testament to their dedication, while a small but significant number are pursuing part-time studies, acknowledging the need for adaptable support for students whose health conditions may necessitate a more flexible schedule. This adaptability ensures that the scholarship can accommodate individuals at various stages of their educational journey, providing support where it is most needed.
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The Tangible Impact of Support
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The financial awards, ranging from $600 to $1,000, are strategically designed to provide meaningful assistance without being overly prescriptive. These funds can be allocated by the recipients to cover a multitude of educational expenses, including tuition fees, housing costs, and essential ancillary expenditures such as technology required for coursework, textbooks, and transportation. For students managing a chronic health condition, these "ancillary expenses" are often critical and can pose unexpected financial burdens. The flexibility in how these funds can be used empowers students to address their most pressing needs, directly alleviating some of the financial pressures associated with pursuing higher education while living with PNES. This targeted support helps bridge the gap between aspiration and achievement, making academic goals more attainable.
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The Legacy of Dr. Lorna Myers and Epilepsy Alliance America
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The establishment and continued success of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund are deeply rooted in the vision and generosity of its namesake, Dr. Lorna Myers, and the dedicated stewardship of Epilepsy Alliance America.
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A Visionary Founder
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Dr. Lorna Myers, a highly respected expert in the field of PNES, is the driving force behind this transformative scholarship. Her profound understanding of the challenges faced by individuals with PNES, derived from years of clinical practice and research, inspired her to create a tangible mechanism of support. Uniquely, the program is funded through Dr. Myers’ personal commitment: she generously donates royalties from her extensive body of work, including books and publications on PNES, to fund these scholarships each year. This philanthropic model ensures the sustainability and growth of the fund, reflecting her deep-seated belief in empowering patients through education.
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"It is an immense privilege to witness the unwavering determination of these students," remarked Dr. Lorna Myers. "Having worked with countless individuals living with PNES, I understand the formidable barriers they face. This scholarship is not just about financial aid; it’s about validating their experiences, affirming their potential, and providing a pathway to a brighter future. Seeing these young individuals pursue their dreams fills me with profound hope and reinforces the critical importance of continued support and awareness for PNES."
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EAA’s Stewardship and Broader Mission
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Epilepsy Alliance America meticulously manages the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund, ensuring its efficient operation and broad reach. EAA’s expertise in patient advocacy, program administration, and community engagement makes it the ideal steward for this vital initiative. Beyond the scholarship, EAA is dedicated to fostering a comprehensive ecosystem of support for individuals with epilepsy and PNES. This includes facilitating access to accurate information, promoting early and accurate diagnosis, and advocating for improved healthcare policies. The scholarship program aligns perfectly with EAA’s overarching mission to improve the lives of those affected by seizure disorders, offering a practical demonstration of its commitment to empowering individuals to lead fulfilling lives.
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An EAA spokesperson commented, "We are incredibly proud to partner with Dr. Lorna Myers in administering this exceptional scholarship program. The stories of resilience and academic ambition from our recipients are truly inspiring. Their success is a testament to the power of targeted support and highlights the critical need for continued investment in PNES awareness and education. EAA remains steadfast in its mission to ensure that no student is held back from their educational dreams due to their diagnosis."
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A Rigorous and Empathetic Selection Process
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The selection of scholarship recipients is a cornerstone of the program’s integrity and effectiveness. Epilepsy Alliance America employs a structured and highly competitive review process designed to identify the most deserving candidates, ensuring that financial aid reaches those who will benefit most and who embody the spirit of the scholarship.
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Ensuring Fairness and Impact
Each year, Epilepsy Alliance America receives a significant number of applications from highly qualified students, often exceeding the available funding. This competitive landscape necessitates a thorough and thoughtful evaluation. The application process requires prospective recipients to demonstrate not only financial need but also academic achievement, compelling personal essays detailing their journey with PNES, and a clear commitment to their future educational and career goals. This holistic approach ensures that candidates are assessed on multiple dimensions, recognizing that academic success is often intertwined with personal circumstances and future aspirations. The personal essays, in particular, provide an invaluable window into the students’ resilience and their capacity to navigate the unique challenges associated with PNES.
Expertise at the Helm
The review committee tasked with the arduous decision-making process is chaired by Patricia Gibson, MSSW DHL ACSW, a distinguished professional known for her expertise and dedication. The committee itself is composed of national experts in PNES, individuals who possess a deep understanding of the condition, its impact on individuals, and the specific needs of students living with it. This level of expertise ensures that applications are reviewed with both academic rigor and profound empathy, recognizing the nuances of living with PNES. Their collective knowledge allows for a fair and insightful assessment, ensuring that the scholarships are awarded to those who demonstrate the greatest need and potential.
Patricia Gibson emphasized the gravity and privilege of her role: "Chairing the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship review committee is one of the most rewarding aspects of my work. Each application tells a powerful story of courage and determination. Our committee, comprised of dedicated PNES experts, is committed to a rigorous yet compassionate review process, ensuring that we identify students who not only demonstrate academic promise and financial need but also embody the incredible spirit required to pursue higher education while managing PNES. It’s a privilege to contribute to their journeys."
Beyond Financial Aid: Building Community and Validation
The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund transcends mere financial assistance; it actively cultivates a vital sense of connection, community, and validation among its recipients. For many, this aspect of the program is as invaluable as the monetary support itself.
Fostering Connection in Isolation
Living with PNES can often be an isolating experience. The lack of public understanding, coupled with the invisible nature of the condition between episodes, can leave individuals feeling alone and misunderstood. The scholarship program actively combats this isolation by bringing recipients into a supportive network. Many students share that beyond the financial relief, the program provides immense validation and encouragement as they navigate the complexities of life with PNES. Knowing that an established organization and dedicated professionals recognize and support their journey can be profoundly empowering. It shifts the narrative from one of personal struggle to one of shared strength.
The Power of Shared Experience
Through ongoing engagement initiatives, including virtual gatherings and various outreach opportunities, recipients are connected with peers who truly understand their experiences. This peer-to-peer connection is often a novel and deeply impactful revelation for many, as they may have never before encountered others who share their specific challenges and triumphs. These platforms facilitate the exchange of coping strategies, academic advice, and emotional support, fostering a community where individuals feel seen, heard, and understood. The sense of belonging cultivated by the program empowers students to not only succeed academically but also to thrive personally, bolstering their mental and emotional well-being. This network helps to dismantle the isolation and stigma often associated with PNES, creating a supportive environment that extends far beyond the duration of their scholarship.
The Road Ahead: Expanding Reach and Impact
As the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund continues to gain recognition and attract an increasing number of applicants, the need for additional funding becomes ever more pressing. Epilepsy Alliance America remains steadfast in its commitment to expanding the program’s reach and impact, ensuring that more students living with PNES can receive the crucial support they deserve.
Addressing Growing Demand
The consistent year-over-year growth in qualified applications is a testament to both the increasing awareness of PNES and the undeniable need for specialized support for this student population. While EAA strives to support as many deserving students as possible, the current funding capacity means that many qualified applicants, despite their remarkable resilience and academic potential, cannot be funded. This unmet demand highlights a critical opportunity for individuals and organizations to contribute to a cause that directly impacts the educational and life trajectories of these deserving students. Each additional dollar contributed directly translates into more opportunities for students who might otherwise face insurmountable barriers to higher education.
A Call to Action for Community Support
Community support plays an absolutely critical role in making the expansion of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund possible. Every contribution, regardless of size, directly helps ensure that individuals living with PNES have equitable access to the educational opportunities they deserve. Donations directly empower students to focus on their studies, manage their health, and pursue their career aspirations without the added burden of overwhelming financial strain. Investing in these students is an investment in their futures, in their communities, and in a more inclusive and understanding society.
A Future of Opportunity
Epilepsy Alliance America is unwavering in its dedication to nurturing the growth of this vital program. The vision is clear: to create a future where no student with PNES is denied the chance to pursue higher education due to financial constraints or a lack of understanding. The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund is more than just a financial aid program; it is a movement towards greater equity, recognition, and empowerment for individuals living with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. Those interested in making a profound difference in the lives of these exceptional students and supporting the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund are encouraged to contribute directly through the Epilepsy Alliance America website. Your generosity can help transform a life, one scholarship at a time.
