In May of 2017, I was let go from my last job as an educator because of my epilepsy. My administration didn’t take the time to accommodate me. I had to move home with my parents to regroup and start over.

My battle with epilepsy began at 9 years old. I remember being at school. I was going to the snack line and it was like walking into a black tunnel. Then, I woke up in the hospital. My parents didn’t have a support group that they could go to. After being diagnosed with epilepsy, I adjusted it.

After college, I joined the workforce. I quickly learned that epilepsy would be a stigmatism for me and my jobs. I have lost jobs that I loved as well as friends. It has been over 20 years since I’ve been diagnosed with this condition. As of April 2022, my seizure are active after almost four years. I’m navigating my “new normal” while maintaining my life and career.

I decided to start Saving Grace Epilepsy Foundation in 2020 to provide support for people with epilepsy.

Today, I'm an Epilepsy Advocate, Influencer, Entrepreneur, and working on my MFA in Scriptwriting at Regent University.

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Derra Howard, Executive Director

Leadership & Board of Directors

Derra Howard
Executive Director

Arlanda Williams
Secretary

Delvin Howard
Treasurer

Rose Howard
Marketing Advisor

Bobbie L. Howard, CPA
Financial Advisor

The Board of Directors of Saving Grace Epilepsy Foundation provides strategic leadership, financial oversight, governance, and community support to advance the Foundation's mission of improving the lives of individuals and families affected by epilepsy through education, advocacy, awareness, and support services.

Our Volunteers

A woman with dark wavy hair and glasses smiling, wearing a black shirt with colorful print, in a framed upload for a team member spotlight. The frame has a purple and cream design with the name T'arie Beregeron and the date May 19.
A woman with curly black hair, glasses, and a colorful floral dress stands against a graffiti wall, smiling. The image features a graphic design with the words "Spotlight" at the top and her name, Ashley Henderson, with the title Volunteer/Advocate, at the bottom, on a purple background.
Photograph of Demetra Dantzler, a volunteer and coordinator for Southeast Louisiana Area Health Education Center, with a beige patterned curtain background and purple text overlay.
A woman with glasses and dark hair smiling, with text overlay reading "TAYLAH BEREGERON VOLUNTEER" and the word "SPOTLIGHT" at the top, surrounded by small purple decorative elements.

Join Our Team