Quilting for a Cure

Nearly $2,900.00 was donated to Epilepsy Foundation Northern California

California Farmers’ Markets Association hosted a raffle in support of the Epilepsy Foundation Northern California. Mario Lopez of Hollister won the quilt donated by the Enchanted Quilters of Lopez Island. Cangratulations!

Tara’s Story

Epilepsy is the third most common neurological disorder in the United States after Alzheimer’s disease and stroke. It is equal in prevalence to cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease combined, and affects more than 3 million people in the U.S., and 50 million people worldwide.

The community affected by Epilepsy finds hope and support through Epilepsy Foundation Northern California. “I gained friends that have epilepsy and have been through the surgery, and friends that are going through the surgery,” said Tara Hayden.

Tara had her first seizure at age 11. After years of intermittent seizures, unable to hold a job, unable to persue an education, unable to enjoy her love of dance or have a “normal” day, Tara’s quality of life became unbearable forcing her to seek assistance at UCSF Medical Center’s Epilepsy Department. In August, the focal origin of Tara’s Epilepsy was found and removed giving her an awesome chance for an independent life.

Epilepsy Foundation Northern California has provided her community support and brought her together with others who are also affected by Epilepsy. Tara has spent a lot of time connecting with others who have faced similar seizures and impending surgery. Many have helped ease her fears of brain surgery. She appreciates her family and friends and is forever grateful to those who have helped her. She wants to help keep the connecting programs going and set out to raise funds for the Epilepsy Foundation Northern California by hosting a raffle with the California Farmers’ Markets Association.

Hearing about Tara’s challenges, Barbara Gonce, along with her Enchanted Quilters club on Lopez Island , (San Juan Islands, Washington State near the Canadian border) joined together to make a quilt for the raffle. Named “Healing Waters”, the quilt was made with 28 healing hands taking over 300 combined hours and traveling over 900 miles. Their gift from their island was displayed at 14 different farmers’ markets in the San Francisco Bay Area where over 800 tickets were sold. Additionally, many obtained their tickets through the website. A total of nearly $2,900.00 was donated to Epilepsy Foundation Northern California. For a large picture of the quilt and more information on its creation, click here.

If you would like to further support Epilepsy Foundation of Northern California, make a tax deductible donation on their website. Thank you for supporting the Epilepsy Foundation of Northern California.