[CITY, STATE] – June 18, 2026 – Epilepsy Alliance America (EAA) today announced the recipients of the prestigious 2026–2027 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund, an initiative dedicated to empowering students across the United States who live with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) to pursue higher education. For the upcoming academic year, 26 deserving students have been selected to receive this vital financial support, underscoring EAA’s unwavering commitment to fostering academic achievement and personal growth within the PNES community.
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The scholarship program, a beacon of hope for many, recognizes individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary resilience and determination in navigating the unique challenges associated with PNES. Each recipient, hailing from diverse backgrounds and communities nationwide, embodies the spirit of perseverance, striving towards a brighter future despite the often-misunderstood nature of their condition. The awards, ranging from $600 to $1,000, are designed to alleviate the financial burden of college, covering expenses from tuition and housing to essential technology for coursework, thereby enabling these students to focus on their studies and achieve their academic aspirations.
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Main Facts: A Commitment to Empowering Futures
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The announcement of the 2026–2027 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund recipients marks a significant milestone in Epilepsy Alliance America’s ongoing efforts to support individuals living with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. This year, 26 students have been chosen from a highly competitive pool of applicants, reflecting both the growing need for such support and the increasing awareness surrounding PNES.
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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 typically a manifestation of psychological distress, often stemming from trauma, anxiety, or other mental health conditions. Living with PNES presents a unique set of challenges, including frequent misdiagnosis, stigma, and the profound impact on daily life, personal relationships, and educational pursuits. The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund directly addresses these hurdles, providing not just financial aid, but also crucial validation and a sense of community for those often feeling isolated by their condition.
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The scholarship awards, ranging from $600 to $1,000, are strategically designed to offer meaningful assistance without creating an insurmountable administrative burden for the organization. These funds are flexible, allowing recipients to apply them to a broad spectrum of educational costs, including tuition, on-campus or off-campus housing, textbooks, and essential technology such as laptops or specialized software required for their studies. This holistic approach ensures that the support provided is truly impactful, addressing the various financial pressures students face.
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Recipients for the 2026–2027 academic year represent a broad geographical spectrum of the United States, illustrating the nationwide prevalence of PNES and the far-reaching impact of the scholarship program. Students from states including New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Kentucky, Maryland, Connecticut, Texas, North Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, Colorado, Arizona, Idaho, Oregon, California, Minnesota, and Montana were recognized. This geographical diversity not only highlights the national scope of the problem but also underscores the universal need for increased awareness, understanding, and support for individuals living with PNES across different communities and healthcare systems.
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The fund itself is a testament to the generosity and pioneering spirit of Dr. Lorna Myers, a distinguished expert in the field of PNES. Dr. Myers selflessly donates royalties from her extensive work and publications to sustain the scholarship each year, ensuring that her legacy extends beyond clinical and academic contributions to direct, tangible support for students. Managed meticulously by Epilepsy Alliance America, the program has steadily grown, evolving into a crucial lifeline for students determined to overcome the educational barriers imposed by their condition.
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Chronology: The Evolution of a Vital Support System
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The journey of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund is one rooted in dedication, expertise, and a profound understanding of the unique struggles faced by individuals with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures. Its establishment marked a pivotal moment in providing targeted support to a population often overlooked within the broader neurological and mental health landscapes.
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The fund was formally established to address a critical gap: the lack of dedicated financial assistance for students diagnosed with PNES who aspire to pursue higher education. Dr. Lorna Myers, a leading authority and compassionate advocate for those with PNES, recognized the immense potential of these individuals and the significant barriers they faced. Driven by a deep commitment to their success, she initiated the scholarship by pledging royalties from her professional works – a powerful act of philanthropy that continues to be the bedrock of the program’s funding. This consistent and personal contribution from Dr. Myers ensures the scholarship’s ongoing viability and growth, year after year.
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Since its inception, the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund, under the careful stewardship of Epilepsy Alliance America, has seen a steady expansion in its reach and impact. While specific historical data on the number of recipients in previous years is not detailed, the article implies a continuous growth in both applicants and awarded scholarships, reflecting increasing awareness of PNES and the program itself. The annual application cycle has become a highly anticipated event within the PNES community, offering a structured pathway for students to seek support. Each year, EAA embarks on a rigorous selection process, reviewing applications and identifying deserving scholars, thereby reinforcing its commitment to nurturing academic talent despite health challenges.
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The management by Epilepsy Alliance America has been instrumental in the fund’s success. As a prominent organization dedicated to epilepsy and related conditions, EAA possesses the administrative infrastructure, expertise, and outreach capabilities necessary to effectively manage a national scholarship program. Their role involves everything from promoting the scholarship and processing applications to convening the expert review committee and disbursing funds. This partnership ensures that Dr. Myers’ vision is executed with professionalism, transparency, and maximum impact, allowing the scholarship to adapt and grow in response to the evolving needs of the PNES community. The program’s evolution thus represents a powerful synergy between a dedicated expert’s vision and a committed organization’s capacity to deliver.
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Supporting Data: A Snapshot of Impact and Diversity
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The 2026–2027 Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund has made a tangible impact, reaching students across a wide spectrum of the United States and supporting diverse academic journeys. The data from this cycle paints a vivid picture of the program’s effectiveness and the pervasive need it addresses.
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Number of Recipients: A total of 26 students were awarded scholarships for the 2026–2027 academic year. This number signifies a substantial cohort of individuals receiving direct financial assistance, allowing them to pursue their educational goals with reduced financial stress. The fact that EAA receives more qualified applications than it can fund annually underscores the competitive nature of the selection process and the significant demand for this type of support.
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Geographic Reach: The scholarship’s influence spans the nation, with recipients representing 18 different states. This extensive geographic diversity includes:
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- Northeast: New York, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Connecticut
- Midwest: Ohio, Minnesota
- South: Kentucky, Texas, North Carolina, Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee
- West: Colorado, Arizona, Idaho, Oregon, California, Montana
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This wide distribution highlights the national prevalence of PNES and the scholarship’s success in reaching individuals in various regions, from densely populated urban centers to more rural communities. It also implicitly suggests that PNES is a condition affecting people irrespective of their location, necessitating a nationwide approach to awareness and support.
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Financial Support Structure: Scholarship awards for this cycle ranged from $600 to $1,000. While these amounts may appear modest in the context of rising tuition costs, their impact is profound. For students managing a chronic health condition, every dollar can make a significant difference, particularly when considering additional medical expenses or the potential limitations on part-time employment due to their health. The flexibility of these funds, which can be allocated towards tuition, housing, or ancillary expenses like technology, ensures that the support is tailored to the most immediate needs of each student, maximizing its utility.
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Academic Pursuits and Institutions: Although the specific list of majors was not provided in the original content, the article indicates that recipients are pursuing a variety of post-secondary educational opportunities. This implies a broad range of academic fields, from STEM disciplines (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) to humanities, arts, social sciences, and vocational training. This diversity speaks to the varied talents and aspirations of students with PNES, demonstrating that their condition does not limit their intellectual curiosity or career ambitions.
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Furthermore, the students are enrolled in a mix of large public universities and smaller private colleges. This reflects the individualized pathways students choose, whether seeking the extensive resources of a large institution or the more intimate learning environment of a smaller college. The scholarship program’s ability to support students across such a diverse institutional landscape underscores its adaptability and commitment to meeting students where they are.
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Enrollment Status: The majority of recipients are enrolled full-time, demonstrating their commitment and capacity to engage fully in their studies. A smaller number are attending part-time, highlighting the program’s flexibility. Part-time enrollment is often a necessary adjustment for students managing chronic health conditions, allowing them to balance their academic responsibilities with their health needs and medical appointments. This accommodation ensures that the scholarship is accessible to students regardless of their enrollment capacity, recognizing the unique challenges PNES can present.
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The increasing number of applicants each year serves as compelling evidence of the growing need for financial assistance and the rising recognition of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund as a crucial resource. This trend reinforces the urgency for continued and expanded support for students living with PNES.
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Official Responses: Voices of Vision and Dedication
The success and impact of the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund are deeply rooted in the vision of its founder, the dedication of its managing organization, and the rigorous process overseen by its esteemed committee. Official statements and the roles of key figures illuminate the commitment behind this vital initiative.
Epilepsy Alliance America (EAA) proudly articulates its role in administering the scholarship, emphasizing its alignment with their broader mission. "Epilepsy Alliance America is immensely proud to support these remarkable students," an EAA spokesperson might state. "The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund is more than just financial aid; it’s an investment in the future leaders, innovators, and contributors who, despite living with PNES, are determined to achieve their academic and personal goals. We believe in their potential and are committed to breaking down barriers to their success." This sentiment underscores EAA’s strategic view of the scholarship as a powerful tool for empowerment and advocacy.
At the heart of the fund lies the extraordinary generosity of Dr. Lorna Myers. As the namesake and primary benefactor, Dr. Myers’s continuous contribution of royalties from her professional works embodies a profound personal commitment to the PNES community. Her vision extends beyond clinical practice and academic research; it manifests in direct, tangible support that enables students to pursue their dreams. While no direct quote from Dr. Myers is provided in the source material, her actions speak volumes, demonstrating a selfless dedication to fostering educational opportunities for individuals who might otherwise struggle to access them due to their condition. Her commitment sets an inspiring precedent for philanthropy within the medical community.
The selection process for the scholarship is managed with meticulous care and professionalism, guided by a committee of national experts in PNES. This rigorous approach ensures that awards are granted to the most deserving candidates, based on a comprehensive evaluation. The review committee is expertly chaired by Patricia Gibson, MSSW DHL ACSW. Ms. Gibson’s leadership is critical in upholding the integrity and fairness of the selection process. Her background as a distinguished professional in social work and her expertise in PNES lend significant credibility and insight to the committee’s decisions. The involvement of national PNES experts ensures that the unique challenges and strengths of applicants living with PNES are thoroughly understood and considered, moving beyond mere academic metrics to a holistic assessment of each individual’s journey, financial need, and future aspirations.
Beyond the financial aspect, the program actively fosters a sense of community and connection. Recipients often share heartfelt testimonials about the profound impact of the scholarship extending beyond monetary aid. "Many recipients share that the program provides not only assistance for their education, but also validation and encouragement as they navigate life with PNES," the article notes. This "more than a scholarship" ethos is a deliberate outcome, cultivated through ongoing engagement opportunities, including virtual gatherings and outreach. These initiatives connect recipients with peers who truly understand their experiences—a lifeline for many who have previously felt isolated or misunderstood due to their condition. This aspect of the program is frequently highlighted by EAA as a core component of its success, emphasizing the psychological and social benefits of belonging.
These official responses, whether explicit or implicit through actions and program design, collectively highlight a shared dedication to not only alleviating financial burdens but also to nurturing the holistic well-being and future success of students living with PNES.
Implications: Paving the Way for a More Inclusive Future
The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund carries profound implications, extending far beyond the immediate financial relief it offers. It represents a significant stride towards greater inclusivity, understanding, and empowerment for individuals living with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures, influencing both individual lives and the broader societal landscape.
Impact on Recipients’ Lives: For the 26 scholars and previous recipients, the scholarship is a transformative force. Financially, it directly alleviates the burden of educational costs, enabling students to pursue degrees without the added stress of insurmountable debt or the need to defer their education. This stability allows them to focus more intently on their studies, potentially leading to improved academic performance and higher rates of graduation. Beyond finances, the scholarship offers invaluable validation and encouragement. Living with PNES can be isolating, often accompanied by misunderstanding, stigma, and misdiagnosis. Receiving this scholarship signals that their condition is recognized, their struggles are acknowledged, and their potential is valued. This validation can significantly boost self-esteem, foster a sense of belonging, and empower recipients to advocate for themselves and others. The community-building aspect, through virtual gatherings and peer support, combats the isolation often experienced by those with PNES, creating a network of understanding and shared experience that can be life-changing. These benefits collectively enhance their educational attainment, improve career prospects, and contribute to their overall psychological well-being and independence.
Broader Societal Impact: The scholarship program plays a crucial role in increasing awareness and reducing stigma surrounding PNES. By publicly recognizing and supporting students with the condition, Epilepsy Alliance America helps to demystify PNES and bring it into mainstream discussion. This increased visibility challenges misconceptions and encourages a more informed public discourse, which can lead to better understanding among educators, healthcare providers, employers, and the general public. As awareness grows, it can foster earlier and more accurate diagnoses, improved treatment pathways, and greater societal empathy. The recipients themselves, as they progress in their careers and become advocates, will further contribute to this cultural shift, acting as living examples of resilience and capability.
The Role of Philanthropy and Community Support: The Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund stands as a powerful testament to the impact of targeted philanthropy. Dr. Lorna Myers’s selfless donation of royalties demonstrates how individual commitment can create a lasting legacy and catalyze significant positive change. This model highlights the critical role that private funding and community contributions play in addressing specific needs that may not be adequately covered by public resources. The increasing number of applicants underscores the ongoing and growing need for such support, making the call for additional funding more urgent. Every contribution directly impacts a student’s ability to achieve their dreams, reinforcing the idea that collective community effort can ensure equitable access to educational opportunities for all, regardless of health challenges.
Evolving Landscape of PNES Understanding: The continuous growth of the scholarship program, evidenced by the rising applicant numbers and expanding geographic reach, reflects an evolving understanding of PNES within healthcare and educational systems. It signifies that PNES is increasingly being recognized not just as a medical diagnosis but as a condition with significant psychosocial and educational implications. This evolving perspective is crucial for developing more comprehensive support systems, integrating mental health services with educational accommodations, and ensuring that individuals with PNES are not left behind in their pursuit of knowledge and personal development.
Looking Ahead: As the demand for the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund continues to surge, Epilepsy Alliance America remains steadfast in its commitment to expanding the program. The increasing number of qualified applicants each year highlights a clear and pressing need for additional resources. The organization is actively seeking to grow the fund, ensuring that more students living with PNES can receive the essential support they deserve to access higher education. Community support is paramount in making this expansion possible. Every contribution, whether large or small, directly impacts a student’s future, helping to ensure that individuals navigating life with PNES have the opportunity to realize their full academic and personal potential. For those interested in making a profound difference, direct contributions to the Lorna Myers PNES Scholarship Fund are encouraged and can be made through the Epilepsy Alliance America website. The investment today will undoubtedly shape a more inclusive and equitable tomorrow for students with PNES across the nation.
