Epilepsy affects some 3.4 million Americans. About 1 in 26 people will develop the neurological condition at some point in their lives, according to the Epilepsy Foundation.

Now, Rep. Jim Costa (D-Fresno) has introduced a bill creating a plan to improve care, research, and public awareness of the disease.

“As someone who has seen firsthand how epilepsy impacts families in the San Joaquin Valley, I know we must do more to support those living with this condition,” Costa said.

“Inspired by my mentor, (former Rep.) Tony Coelho, and his lifelong advocacy, I’m proud to introduce the National Plan for Epilepsy. This bipartisan bill will strengthen care, expand resources, and ensure that those affected have a voice in shaping the policies that support them.”

Coordinated Research Could Mean Better Access to Treatment

The National Plan for Epilepsy Act from Costa and Greg Murphy (R-North Carolina) mandates the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services develop a national epilepsy plan and annually assess the program’s effectiveness.

The chronic noncommunicable disease affects about 50 million people worldwide. People with epilepsy suffer from recurring seizures. Researchers believe it is caused by abnormal and synchronized electrical discharges in neurons, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Valley Children’s Hospital runs the Pediatric Epilepsy Treatment Program. Dr. Cesar Santos, medical director for pediatric neurology at the hospital, said research is key for preventing the disease. Research also means new medications and less invasive neurological procedures more accessible for low-income populations.

“A National Plan for Epilepsy will play a significant role in supporting this work and in improving the lives of those with epilepsy, including the children we treat every day at Valley Children’s,” Santos said.

U.S. Senators Eric Schmitt (R-Missouri) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota) are leading the senate version of the bill.

About Tony Coelho

Coelho grew up in the Los Banos area and was injured in a pickup truck accident when he was 16. Doctors later surmised that the injuries caused his epilepsy. He later lost his driver’s license and medical insurance because of the condition.

However, that didn’t deter him from a successful political career in which he rose to be the Majority Whip in the House of Representatives (1987-89) and chair of the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee (1981-1987).

Asked about being a politician with epilepsy, Coelho famously quipped:

“Well, in the 13 years I have served in Washington (as Rep. Bernie Sisk’s aide) I knew a lot of people who went to the White House and had fits. At least I’d have an excuse.”