Background

"Epilepsy in America affects more than 3 million people. It is as common as breast cancer and takes as many lives - up to 50,000 Americans die each year from seizures and related causes. The risk of sudden death is 24 times greater than that of the general population."

~Newsweek Magazine, April 20, 2009


Emma Bursick of Indiana Township died on July 14, 2008 at the age of 7 ½ from a fatal complication of epilepsy called SUDEP - Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy. As is the case with most SUDEP tragedies, Emma was a physically healthy child who died suddenly and unexpectedly in her sleep. The cause of SUDEP is unknown; though it can occur in anyone with epilepsy, certain risk factors appear to place some people at higher risk of SUDEP than others. It is important for people with epilepsy and their caregivers to know about SUDEP, and to know that there are measures they can take to try and lower their risk.

In January 2009, the Bursick Family established the Emma Bursick Memorial Fund. Money raised through this event is used to support the Pittsburgh SUDEP Task Force, SUDEP research and public awareness via community outreach efforts.

The Bursick family extends their heartfelt gratitude to family, friends and the community at large whose support and assistance have made Fair Play a reality.

For more information, please visit the Emma Bursick Memorial Fund at
www.emmabursick.org



"My life is my message."                         ~ Ghandi