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‘For A Better Life With Epilepsy’

569. Sandra Howard

Sandra Howard from Sheffield saw her son’s life transformed when a new treatment for epilepsy meant he went from having 20 seizures a day to only one a month.

Passionate about raising awareness of the benefits of the Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS) she founded ‘For A Better Life With Epilepsy’. She has introduced 10,000 GPs to the benefits of VNS for people with severe epilepsy and raised over £3.7 million to provide support for people with the condition. The helpline she created has answered 42,000 calls offering advice and help, while Fable’s Dream Factory project helps to make dreams and wishes a reality for those affected by epilepsy, as well as providing Seizure Alert bed alarms to families who would benefit from the use of this device.

Prime Minister David Cameron said:

“Sandra has transformed the lives of so many people living with epilepsy through the work of her charity. The helpline she has set up has given thousands of people and families access to invaluable support and advice about the condition. I’m pleased to name Sandra a Point of Light.”

Sandra said:

“I am honoured to receive this award, it will help highlight the work we at fable do to help improve the quality of life for those with epilepsy. We have just celebrated our 21st anniversary and this helps make that achievement even more special.

This year we hope to make more dreams and wishes a reality through our Dream Factory Project. Creating special moments for people affected by epilepsy. Fable has and always will be a lifeline to some, an understanding ear to many and an open door to all.”

The daily Points of Light award recognises outstanding individual volunteers - people who are making a change in their community.

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