Epileptic Misconceptions

Epileptic Misconceptions is a shared experience for people living with epilepsy. Misconceptions about epilepsy persist in large part due to a lengthy history of inaccurate information portrayed in media and beyond. The lasting stigma surrounding epilepsy makes it difficult for many to change the narrative and educate others on the facts. Epilepsy is a common seizure disorder affecting one in every hundred people. These prevalent misconceptions not only affect the lives of people with epilepsy, but can place them in danger. This exhibition is intended to dispel some of the most common misconceptions.

The artist, Sarah Hysenaj was personally affected by epilepsy in her childhood. At eleven years old she sat in a doctors office where she was told that her strange uncontrollable shaking was epilepsy. She had no clue what that word meant much less what a seizure was, and she was overwhelmed by the changes her doctor was listing off; all of which would immediately affect her future. What she discovered in the years to come was the profound effect this had on her life. This disorder gave her community, purpose and inspiration.

Acknowledgement:

This exhibition is on the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. Toronto is covered by Treaty 13 territory with the Mississaugas of the Credit.

This exhibition is presented by Epilepsy Toronto in partnership with ArtworxTO: Toronto's Year of Public Art 2021-2022.