It’s been a year since Jessica Palubiskie went public with her story.
Since she shared her experience about having epilepsy, she’s connected with people across the world.
This weekend, she’s ready to raise money for the Timmins Seizure and Brain Injury Centre with the 2nd Annual Hoe-Down for Epilepsy.
The fun is going down Saturday, Dec. 1 at the Victory Tavern. The pre-party is from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. During that stretch, Palubiskie said Timmins MPP Gilles Bisson and Mayor Elect George Pirie will be stopping by, as well as MP Charlie Angus, who she said will be singing a few songs.
Doors for the Whiskey Runners show open at 9 p.m.
There will be also be 50/50 draws, jail friends and family for donations, prizes for the best cowboy/cowgirl outfits, door prizes, and games.
While Palubiskie was a baby when she had her seizure, fear kept her from sharing her story for three decades.
“Last year, I first came out with my epilepsy to most of my friends….and to everyone. The support actually has been amazing, I couldn’t ask for better. I’ve had people from out of the country actually message me, I have followers on Facebook from everywhere,” she said.
There are still people who treat her differently. For the most part, they just have questions.
“They want to know what to do if somebody has a seizure and it’s just great because a lot of people don’t know what to do,” she said.
According to Epilepsy Ontario, if someone is having a seizure you should create a safe space and move sharp objects out of the way. If the person falls, you can place something soft under their head and roll them on their side as it ends. You should not restrain them or put anything in their mouth. You can learn more tips on what to do here.
Last year’s hoe-down raised $2,100 for the Timmins organization that offers help and resources for people with epilepsy and acquired brain injuries. Palubiskie is hoping to surpass that total this year.
More information on the hoe down is available here.
