In this week’s episode, Brain & Life Podcast host Dr. Daniel Correa is joined by Tiffany Kairos, an epilepsy advocate and founder of the Epilepsy Network, and her husband Chris Kairos. Tiffany shares her journey of living with epilepsy and her recent diagnosis of Functional Neurologic Disorder (FND). Tiffany and Chris delve into their experience managing both conditions, the impact on daily life, and the support systems that help her navigate these experiences. Dr. Correa is then joined by Dr. W. Curt LaFrance, Inaugural Director of Neuropsychiatry and Behavioral Neurology at Rhode Island Hospital, Director of the VA Mind Brain program, and Professor of Psychiatry and Neurology at Brown University. Dr. LaFrance discusses the complexities of FND, the importance of integrating neurology and psychiatry for effective diagnosis and treatment, and the evolution of terminology to reduce stigma and improve patient engagement.

Additional Resources

The Epilepsy Network (TEN)

What is Functional Neurologic Disorder?

Taking Control of Your Seizures

Epilepsy Foundation

The Anita Kaufman Foundation

Other Brain & Life Podcast Episodes on These Topics

JenVon Cherry on Educating Communities of Color About Epilepsy

Actor Cameron Boyce’s Legacy and Raising Awareness About SUDEP

Tiffany Kairos on Finding Her Voice in Epilepsy Advocacy

We want to hear from you!

Have a question or want to hear a topic featured on the Brain & Life Podcast?

·       Record a voicemail at 612-928-6206

·       Email us at BLpodcast@brainandlife.org

Social Media:  

Guests: Tiffany Kairos @TiffanyKairos @theepilepsynetwork; Chris Kairos @ka1ro5; Dr. W. Curt LaFrance @brownuniversityhealth

Hosts: Dr. Daniel Correa @neurodrcorrea; Dr. Katy Peters @KatyPetersMDPhD