Awareness begins with conversation and when that conversation enters workplaces, it has the power to truly transform lives.

Samman Association, on April 28th 2026, conducted an engaging and insightful corporate awareness session at Accenture, bringing together medical expertise, lived experiences, and an open space for dialogue. Over 370 employees of Accenture attended this virtual awareness session.

Understanding Epilepsy—Beyond Myths

The session began with a comprehensive presentation by Samman’s Secretary Dr. Jayanti Mani, Neurologist and Epileptologist. She simplified the science behind epilepsy, helping participants understand that:

• A seizure is a sudden electrical disturbance in the brain that can affect behaviour, movement, or awareness.
• Epilepsy is not a one-off event, but a condition marked by recurrent, unprovoked seizures.

Through real-life examples and clear explanations, she addressed a crucial gap, especially that many seizures don’t look like what people commonly assume. Not all seizures involve jerky convulsions; some can be as subtle as a brief blank stare or confusion.

She also emphasized seizure first aid, reinforcing how timely and calm intervention can make a critical difference.

Looking Beyond Seizures: The Invisible Impact

Adding another important dimension, Samman’s Committee Member, Dr. Urvashi Shah, Neuropsychologist, focused on the psychosocial realities of living with epilepsy.

Her session highlighted that epilepsy is often “more than just seizures.” It can affect:

• Self-esteem and mental health
• Family dynamics
• Social and professional opportunities

She spoke about stigma, disclosure dilemmas, and the silent challenges individuals face in workplaces where they are sometimes perceived as a “risk” rather than recognized for their capabilities.

Awareness, empathy, and empowerment are just as important as medical treatment.

A Voice That Matters: Lived Experience at the Workplace

One of the most powerful moments of the session came when Samman member, Deepesh Palkar, who works at Accenture shared his personal journey with epilepsy.

His story brought authenticity and relatability into the room. By speaking openly, he challenged stigma and showed that individuals with epilepsy can thrive professionally when supported by understanding environments.

Why Workplace Awareness Matters

Workplaces are where adults spend a significant part of their lives. Creating awareness here:

• Reduces fear and misconceptions
• Encourages supportive responses during seizures
• Promotes inclusion and equal opportunity

Most importantly, it helps individuals feel safe to be themselves without fear of judgement or discrimination.

Awareness is Action

This session at Accenture is a reminder that change begins with informed communities. When organizations take the initiative to educate their employees, they contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic society. We would like to express our heartfelt gratitude to the team at Accenture for making this possible.

Every conversation about epilepsy brings us one step closer to breaking stigma. Epilepsy is not a limitation; lack of awareness is.