Troy Students Launch Project to Raise Epilepsy Awareness
(Cherie Rolfe, Oct. 21, 2025)
TROY, MI–When most people think of epilepsy, they picture a seizure. In reality, epilepsy is a more complex neurological disorder that impacts over 50 million people worldwide. The misunderstandings contribute to stigma and isolation.
This why six students from Troy High School – Ananya Anand, Zana Berishaj, Keyaan Khan Eunah Kim, Sophie Kinaya, and Kashvi Mohan — came together to create Project Synara, a nonprofit working to de-stigmatize epilepsy and educate the public. The name itself is a blend of two key elements of epilepsy: the synapse, which is the cellular mechanism behind seizures, and the aura, the earliest symptom of a seizure that can often point to the part of the brain it originates.
These students are partnering locally and globally with United Nonprofit to spread their message far and wide: Epilepsy deserves the awareness and understanding of us all.
As one of the founding members, Zana Berishaj, said, “It’s important to us that people not only learn about epilepsy but feel confident in helping someone in need. Education and awareness can save lives and reduce stigma.” Through their dedication, Project Synara demonstrates that awareness, education, and empathy can create a meaningful impact in both individual lives and the broader community.
Project Synara and its members are working to not only spread awareness on social media, but also through podcasts with experts in the field and informative seminars both online and in-person. In addition, they are developing educational resources for schools, creating easy-to-follow guides on seizure first aid, and collaborating with healthcare professionals to ensure their information is accurate and accessible. They are preparing outreach materials that are visually engaging to better capture the public’s attention in an effort to continue to increase awareness among all demographics.
They plan to gather students for the annual Purple Day Event on March 26th to support research and intend to host First Aid workshops to explain how to help individuals with epilepsy during a crisis. By engaging at multiple levels, the students hope to empower their community in all aspects of epilepsy knowledge and understanding.
About half of epilepsy cases still have no known cause. The other half can be attributed to genetics, infections, autoimmune disorders, or structural problems such as strokes or head trauma. Researchers continue to study these causes to better understand seizure triggers and develop more effective treatments, including precision medicine tailored to an individual’s unique neurological profile.
The seizures that are caused by epilepsy can look very different. They can be convulsive, which is characterized by stiffening and muscle jerks, or non-convulsive, causing temporary loss of awareness.
Regardless of the type of seizure, it is important to understand how to help people if you witness a seizure. The first and most important thing to do is to keep the person safe and away from possible hazards. Do not restrain them or put anything in their mouth, as this can cause suffocation or other complications. If possible, time the seizure once it starts, and call emergency services if it lasts longer than five minutes. 911 should also be called if breathing does not return, another seizure begins, or the person is injured, pregnant, or diabetic. Providing immediate support can help prevent injury and ease the fear that often accompanies seizures.
Epilepsy is life-altering, especially for the 30 percent of individuals whose seizures don’t respond to even the most modern medications. People with epilepsy can face discrimination at work, school, or in social settings. Some also have strict driving restrictions, limited employment options, and mental health challenges such as depression and anxiety. Families of those with epilepsy are also affected, often needing additional support to help their loved ones. But by bringing more awareness and acceptance, those with epilepsy can feel more supported by the community.
On October 25 the Synara Project is hosting a 3K Walk in Robinwood Park at 2pm. Attendees are encouraged to wear purple. More info: Google Doc
