This is the first electronic version of Epilepsy Action in New Zealand. The printed version is no longer viable to produce and distribute. This opens further opportunities to Epilepsy New Zealand with its communication enabling digital advantages to be embraced.

Our aim is to produce an Epilepsy Action Newsletter on a regular basis at the beginning of March, May, August and November, depending on demand and feedback.  Contributions are most welcome from members. Simply forward your article, comments and feedback to ceo@epilepsy.org.nz.

At Epilepsy Association of New Zealand we have been busy planning for 2016. Budgets are being put in place and funding being sourced to deliver our services from a national to local perspective throughout the country.

With 12 offices and 15 employed educators ENZ is well positioned to provide awareness, education, information and support to New Zealanders with epilepsy.

One of our biggest challenges we face is to connect locally with communities, local people and businesses. Our membership and volunteer base is critical to accomplish this along with our awareness campaigns.

With Purple Day upon us we are busy distributing retail packs for stores to distribute our ribbons upon their counter tops and hero packs being distributed to organisers of local fundraising events. Our Guide to Paint the town Purple is available from our website and we have over a dozen landmarks throughout the country being lit up purple.

Inside this issue is an article on the care giver role. At ENZ we want to ensure that caregivers are aware and trained to provide the best possible service for those living with epilepsy. We are someway down the road in development of a training course for professional caregivers. One of the surprises that some may struggle with is that we will be charging professionals for this education. Those with epilepsy and their families who are members will still receive this service free of charge.

In addition, we are embracing technology changes within our finance and CRM processing software enabling productivity efficiencies.

We hope you enjoy reading this Epilepsy Action New Zealand Issue.

Graeme

CEO, Epilepsy Association of NZ

Click here to download a PDF copy of our latest E-newsletter.