Epilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas

 About the Epilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas

The Epilepsy Foundation Central & South Texas was founded in 1993 to improve the quality of life for more than 165,000 people with epilepsy in over 79 counties. We strive to dispel myths and misunderstandings about epilepsy while helping individuals live full and meaningful lives.

What is Camp Brainstorm?

Camp Brainstorm is a dream opportunity for children with epilepsy. Located at Camp Aranzazu in Rockport, Texas, It gives children with epilepsy a real sleep-away camp experience in a safe space. Camp Brainstorm is a place to make friends, develop skills, and try new activities in a medically monitored environment that promotes independence in its campers. The best part? Camp Brainstorm is free to campers. 

In 2024, Camp Brainstorm provided 58 youth living with epilepsy, ages 8-17, with the opportunity to experience new adventures in an inclusive, encouraging, supportive environment where epilepsy is the “norm.” During the five-day, four-night Camp experience, Campers delighted in activities such as arts and crafts, swimming, archery, fishing, sailing, zipline, kayaking, nature exploration, and campfire storytelling, which helped to enhance bonds with new and old friends!

Camp Brainstorm can be a first-time experience for some campers, but it can also be a new experience for parents. All camp staff and volunteers do everything possible to help parents and caregivers feel welcome and comfortable, and to ensure that their children are in safe and capable hands. It's truly great to know when a parent has this type of positive experience.  One story from a parent helps to illustrate this point:

“My son had a wonderful first experience at Camp and looks forward to returning. This is an amazing thing to see because he could be more social and independent, for that matter. He can be very withdrawn. I always thought he was just a quiet person, but he stays away from anything new because he lacks confidence. Hearing about all the new things he tried, from the zip-lining down to the food choices that were available to him. I was amazed to hear about all those new experiences he had and on his own, not me trying to force it upon him. He made new friends, and I can’t express how much it means to me to see that. Best experience ever for both of us!”

Knowing what Camp means to families feeds our spirit, but hearing what it means to our campers directly inspires us to do more each year so that everyone walks away feeling like one of our Campers who shared, “I got a lot out of being with people who really understand what goes on in my life. The counselors were awesome, and I made a lot of friends. I LOVE Camp Brainstorm!”

Over the past twelve years that Camp Brainstorm has operated, staff, counselors, and medical and community volunteers have worked collaboratively to execute this beloved program for children with epilepsy living in 79 counties throughout Central and South Texas. Working in collaboration with campers and their families and camp staff, we unify to deliver our organization’s mission with inclusivity, heart, compassion, and joy!

We Need You! 

This year, we need your help to fund youth programs. Your support will provide young people with epilepsy the opportunity to feel empowered and connected. With your help, we aim to raise $12,000 for our Giving Tuesday initiative. This funding will make it possible for young individuals to have life-changing experiences and be surrounded by others who understand what it's like to have epilepsy. Thank you for your support.