Epilepsies Action Network Receives 2025 Sara Stubblefield Advocacy Award

We are deeply honored to share that the Epilepsies Action Network (EAN) has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 Sara Stubblefield Advocacy Award presented by the Epilepsy Foundation.

This award celebrates individuals and organizations leading the way in epilepsy advocacy. Sara Stubblefield was a passionate champion for epilepsy research and education. Diagnosed with epilepsy in high school, she dedicated her life to improving treatment and care. Sara passed away at the age of 36 in 2011, and this award continues her legacy by showcasing those who advance her mission.

“Many, many years ago, we all came together because we were frustrated. We were frustrated with what was happening and why things weren’t translating fast enough. … We were able to take that building frustration and turn it into what has become a movement. … It’s your stories that those Members will remember, and we hope we can get every single one of them to sign on to the plan so we can get it passed and we can improve all of our lives, the lives of all our loved ones.”

 — Ilene Miller, Director, Epilepsies Action Network

This award reflects the commitment, support, and collaboration of every individual who makes EAN what it is—from families and community members to researchers and clinicians across the country. Together, we are working to:

• Pass a National Plan for the Epilepsies that reflects the needs of affected communities—see the Senate version and House version

• Elevate epilepsy as a national public health priority

• Increase research funding and program support at the federal level

• Unite rare epilepsy groups under a common voice for change

• Expand the Epilepsy Congressional Caucus 

Receiving the Sara Stubblefield Advocacy Award strengthens our drive to keep fighting for the change the epilepsy community deserves. We dedicate this honor to Sara, to the families living with epilepsy every day, and to all those who continue to push for awareness, equity, and a better future.

Thank you to the Epilepsy Foundation for this recognition—and thank you to our entire EAN community for making this work possible. We’re just getting started.

Want to help? Use this tool to urge your Members of Congress to sign on in support of the National Plan.