By Lillian Ridlen, LaPlace

DEAR EDITOR: In an informal meeting with a counselor and instructor of the Epilepsy Foundation of Southeast Louisiana, it was stated they are expanding their services to patients, parents and the general public.

Two recently-added services are providing low-cost medical identification bracelets and helping patients and parents to fill out forms for services, which at times can be confusing and complicated.

The available services which include assisting those with low income or no income to obtain necessary medications for seizure disorder at reduced cost or free, as the need may be.

The mission of the Foundation is to enhance the quality of life of individuals and families living with epilepsy and seizure disorders by increasing public awareness of epilepsy and addressing their individual needs. The Epilepsy Foundation is a non-profit health agency and an affiliate of the National Epilepsy Foundation.

They provide information and referrals, short-term counseling, support networks, speakers, films, printed materials and exhibits, available to professional groups, schools and school systems and the general public. For school systems it is important to be trained to recognize all the various types of seizures and how to handle the varying kinds that occur.

They also provide empowerment and advocacy to secure needed services and rights guaranteed by law and address the issues of employment discrimination and problems with government services delivery and Social Security disability denial.

They are located at 3701 Canal St., New Orleans, and their phone number is (504) 486-6326. Anyone who needs help or advice in dealing with epilepsy or seizure disorder or is in need of information should not hesitate to call.