August 28, 2018 Netflix recently released a movie called The After Party. Deirdre Floyd, President of The Canadian Epilepsy Alliance/Alliance Canadienne de l’epilepsie (CEA/ ACE) says “the portrayal of seizures in this film is inaccurate and portrays those living with seizures in a negative way”.
Any depiction in a film that mocks a seizure disorder or makes it seem that all seizures look the same sets back the work the Canadian Epilepsy Alliance does to provide correction information in which there are many types of seizures. Our mission is to educate and provide correct information to the pubic about seizures that include the various types of seizures and appropriate first aid for all types of seizures.
The Feedback we received from clients who posted on our social media forums felt the content was not an accurate depiction of a generalized seizure and believe seizure first aid was totally ignored. It is very disappointing to see seizures portrayed in this Netflix film.
Real Facts about Epilepsy:
Epilepsy is a neurological condition of the brain characterized by the tendency to have recurring seizures. There are over forty different types of seizures and the triggers for seizures are very individualized. In Canada there are over 260, 000 Canadians living with epilepsy. Not all seizures are the same. The onset of epilepsy can begin at any age. To learn more about seizures visit www.canadianepilepsyalliance.org
About the Canadian Epilepsy Alliance
The Canadian Epilepsy Alliance (CEA) is a Canada-wide network of grassroots organizations dedicated to the promotion of independence and quality of life for people with epilepsy and their families, through support services, information, advocacy, and public awareness.
As the voting member of the International Bureau of Epilepsy (IBE), the CEA is the voice for those living with epilepsy in Canada and internationally. The IBE is the international organization that serves to develop, support and link national epilepsy organizations around the world and exists to improve the quality of life of all people with epilepsy and their families and careers. The Canadian Epilepsy Alliance works with the IBE and participates in global initiatives representing those living with epilepsy in Canada.
Trevor Gordon, CEA Social Media Coordinator
Deirdre Floyd, President