Empowering the Community During Epilepsy Awareness Month

Antelope Valley Medical Center shares hope through epilepsy education.

(LANCASTER, CA – November 11, 2025) – In recognition of Epilepsy Awareness Month, Antelope Valley Medical Center (AVMC), launched an educational initiative aimed at increasing the public’s understanding of epilepsy and reducing the stigma surrounding the condition to support those living with epilepsy. With treatment and support, most people with epilepsy lead full, active, and successful lives.

AVMC’s Neurodiagnostic team hosted two events to provide educational material, encourage conversation, and bring epilepsy awareness to empower patients, families, and the broader community. 

“By educating our community, we’re not only sharing knowledge, we’re building support and showing empathy by helping people feel seen and understood,” said Dr. Kruthika Shanmugam, M.D., Antelope Valley Medical Center’s Epilepsy & Medical Director. “Epilepsy is more than a medical condition; it’s a human experience that affects everyday life.”

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes recurring unprovoked seizures. A seizure occurs when there is a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain. Anyone can develop epilepsy, it affects people of all ages, races, and backgrounds. Around 1 in 26 people in the United States will develop epilepsy during their lifetime. Approximately 3.4 million Americans live with active epilepsy, including 456,000 children. It’s one of the most common neurological disorders worldwide. (https://www.epilepsy.com)

Antelope Valley Medical Center offers Electroencephalography (EEG) monitoring---a painless and non-invasive test to help diagnose neurological conditions. The team also helps with medication management and local access to subspecialty care for seizures with board certified epileptologist.

What to do if you notice someone having an active seizure:

• Remain calm and time the seizure
• Move objects away to protect from injury
• Turn the person on their side if possible
• Do not put anything in their mouth
• Call 911 if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, repeats without recovery, or causes injury

To learn more about Antelope Valley Medical Center and services available, please visit www.avmc.org.

Photo caption: AVMC’s Neurodiagnostic team sets up outside hospital’s main entrance providing Epilepsy resources and information to the public.

About Antelope Valley Medical Center

Antelope Valley Medical Center (AVMC) is the leading hospital in the heart of the Antelope Valley, delivering high-quality, compassionate healthcare to the community since 1955. As a 420-bed, full-service, acute-care hospital, AVMC offers comprehensive medical services, including emergency care, advanced surgical procedures, maternity and neonatal care, cardiovascular care, and the region’s only trauma center, pediatric and inpatient behavioral health unit. With a focus on innovation and compassionate care, AVMC is dedicated to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves. For more information, visit www.avmc.org, call (661) 949-5000, or follow us at @avmedicalcenter.