Shining Stars

All children are special, but we believe that children with epilepsy are Shining Stars!

This program connects youth and teens with epilepsy from across Minnesota and encourages them to reach for the stars. All youth ages 17 and under are invited to become a Shining Star and join us with their family for special events throughout the year.

Photo of two people sitting in stadium seats looking at the camera and smiling.

The Shining Stars program seeks to address the feelings of isolation and difference that can often accompany an epilepsy diagnosis, especially at a young age. We help children connect with others who are facing similar challenges and seek to empower them to embrace their differences and continually strive to meet their fullest potential.

We recognize that epilepsy affects the entire family. In addition to opportunities for children with epilepsy, the Shining Stars program offers parents a chance to connect with each other. We also publish a quarterly e-newsletter with information and resources specific to parents of children with epilepsy.

All new Shining Stars will receive:

Shining Star Medallion
Program Certificate
Special Event Invitations

Shining Star Application

Shining Star Information

First Name

Last Name

Birthdate

MM/DD/YYYY

Gender

4 things that make me wonderful:
(This can be anything: hobbies, talents, personality, likes/dislikes, etc)

Upload a current photo (please be sure photo title includes the child's name)

Does EFMN have your permission to use this photo on our website/in an upcoming newsletter?

YesNo

Parent/Guardian's Information

First Name

Last Name

Phone

Street Address

City

State

Postal Code

Add another parent/guardian?

YesNo

Second Parent/Guardian's Information

First Name

Last Name

Relationship to parent/guardian 1

Add second parent/guardian to Shining Star parent email list? (Optional - will receive updates about upcoming events and opportunities for Shining Stars)(Please do not enter the same email address as parent #1)

Contact Information

Thriving with Epilepsy

Meet Thomas Putnam

Thomas and Anna Putnam share a bond unlike any other brother and sister. They may just be the only non-twin siblings to have an SCN8A epilepsy diagnosis in the world. This rare form of epilepsy is due to a sodium channel disorder and affects the 14-year-old Thomas and 11-year-old Anna in similar ways.

Thomas' Story

A young man with blond hair in a UofM sweater stands next to his mom, smiling. The family resemblance is apparent.

Ways to create awareness in your local community include:

Create a PowerPoint presentation about your journey and share it with your class
Write an article about epilepsy and submit it to your local or school newspaper
Organize a local awareness event or fundraiser
Educate your friends, teachers, and neighbors using EFMN’s brochures & resources
Participate in the annual Rise Above Seizures Walk
Organize a clothing drive at your school or in your community (pick-ups available in our service area)
“Speak Up” and share your story in November (National Epilepsy Awareness Month)
Request a FREE seizure training; staff from EFMN can educate your teachers and fellow students
Request a classroom kit filled with information & activities for your classroom