Focusing on generating new insights into the causes and effects of the disorder, the chair will attempt to discover new methods of treatment and work to de-stigmatize the perception of epilepsy in society.
Epilepsy affects approximately one per cent of the Canadian population.
It is a symptom of a neurological disorder which affects the brain and often manifests itself in the form of seizures. Each year, more than 12,000 people in Canada learn that they have epilepsy, including over 3,000 children under the age of 10. The cause of epilepsy in 75 per cent of children and 50 per cent of adults is unknown, and the social stigma that has long surrounded the disorder has prevented many people from seeking treatment. This outstanding gift, by advancing research in the field, will contribute to our understanding of this complex disorder. The Bahen family are long-time U of T supporters.