NGO Epi-Awareness

The NGO Epiprosvita (EPI-AWARENESS) is dedicated to improving the lives of people with epilepsy and related illnesses in Ukraine. Established to address the pressing needs of this community, the organization has grown into a key player in advocacy, education, and support for individuals with disabilities.

Epiprosvita is an active member of the largest patient network, Patients of Ukraine, where it advocates for the legalization of essential medications, including medical cannabis. It also collaborates with the activist network Fight For Right, promoting inclusivity and providing educational and humanitarian opportunities for people with disabilities.

The organization plays a vital role in national healthcare initiatives, participating in the Ministry of Health’s working group on medical procurement for neurological diseases to ensure access to necessary treatments. Additionally, it partners with the Ukrainian League Against Epilepsy to develop joint projects that bring the best treatment practices to doctors and patients.

Epiprosvita’s achievements include spearheading advocacy campaigns, training over 9,500 national railway conductors on epilepsy assistance, and providing 1,300 hours of consultations to individuals with epilepsy. The organization also launched “Syayvo,” Ukraine’s first lifestyle magazine for mothers of children with disabilities, and reached over 4 million media readers with critical information about epilepsy and first aid.

Looking ahead, Epiprosvita plans to expand its impact through initiatives such as career development projects for mothers of children with disabilities, the social enterprise Fantasaur for adaptive children’s clothing, and legislative advocacy for a 10% quota for people with disabilities in Ukraine’s Election Code. A key focus for the coming year is the publication of a guide to the keto diet for patients with drug-resistant epilepsy.