Brain Storm: Understanding Epilepsy 2016
Distributed by Stacia Kalinowski
Produced by Ken Stone
Directed by Stacia Kalinoski
DVD, color, 54 min.
Neuroscience, Medicine, Psychology, Education
Date Entered: 12/08/2017
Reviewed by Rodney Birch, Research Services Librarian, Northwest Nazarene University“Epilepsy,” a word that has evoked fear and confusion for centuries, thus leading to many misconceptions about the causes of and “cures” for the illness. Epilepsy affects approximately 3 million Americans, and kills more people per year than breast cancer. Understanding Epilepsy is a narrative exploration into the personal struggles of three people living with the disease. Interviews with parents, spouses, siblings, and medical professionals provide the viewer with some context as to the complexity of the affliction: that no seizure is the same nor is the behavior resulting from the seizure the same. The film provides a down-to-earth explanation of the causes of seizures and various options for treatment. The end of the film provides an update on each of three main characters, providing a sense of closure. Resources for further information are found after the credits. This film should be included in collections that support psychology, health care, social work, and education.