Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Natalie Y. Beavers. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Natalie Y. , thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?
In 2008, the Angels of Epilepsy Inc. non-profit charity, was organized and is helping many survivors and families in Georgia, in many other states, and also in some countries. Our charitable organization supply the needs for patients as well as families dealing with those hospitalized such as lodging, gift cards for meals, parking, and/or other needs. AOE provides transportation for epilepsy survivors that are unable to drive, supply medical ID accessories, and assist with prescriptions and other medical needs. We also provide activity classes for survivors and caregivers, as well as health seminars and workshops throughout the year. Angels of Epilepsy visit schools, summer camps, and churches to give first-aid tips and educational information about epilepsy and seizures.
Natalie and Angels Of Epilepsy did receive 4 awards in 2017 – 2018 in recognition of their dedication to positively impact society through service. She also appeared on the well-known television show called “Divorce Court” to give information, tips, and empowerment to a couple dealing with epilepsy.
In 2019, Natalie Beavers and the Angels of Epilepsy Charity & Advocacy partnered with other organizations and has traveled to many states to share her life experience and to reach out to the minorities in the epilepsy community. Also in the spring of 2019, Natalie became a member of the Epilepsy Community Advisory Board at Morehouse School of Medicine in Atlanta, GA.
In 2021, became an ambassador with SK Life Science with their “Steps Toward Zero” movement that’s designed to educate, inspire, and activate the epilepsy community to reimagine their goals with the help of their doctors and others. She is also one of SK Life Science advocates and ambassadors for their epilepsy medication XCOPRI.
In November of 2023, Natalie received the NCBON “Unsung Hero” Award in Atlanta, GA.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
Natalie was diagnosed with epilepsy a little over 40 years and throughout her life she’s dealt with many obstacles and challenges. In the summer of 2006, Natalie had a seizure while driving and it became a tragic car accident that changed her entire life. Results from several brain tests in 2007, she was told by doctors that there was a lot of damaged tissue on the left temporal-lobe and a cyst on her brain. Natalie had two craniotomy (brain) surgeries in 2008 which did decrease her seizure activity. But due to the cyst that’s still on her brain, she battles with seizures from time to time.
Spending so much time in the hospital, Natalie met epilepsy survivors which many of them had similar stories. She talked to her parents about starting an organization that will help the many lives that matter in the epilepsy community. Angels of Epilepsy was launched in 2008 and has recently celebrated 15 years serving the community.
Battling with epilepsy, Natalie deals with short-term memory loss. During a doctor’s visit, she was asked many questions about her recent seizure activity, and she couldn’t quite remember. In 2013, she created a book entitled “The Seizure Diary”, which is a journal that helps survivors, parents, and caregivers keep documentation of seizure activity as well as questions and concerns for the doctor. This book has been sent to epilepsy survivors in many states and in 7 countries so far.
Natalie says, “I’m very proud of regardless of the setbacks I’ve experienced, I didn’t give up. Being a speaker and mentor, I do share my story to encourage others to keep going and there is light at the end of the tunnel.”
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
Being a minority business owner and a nonprofit organization, we’ve experienced a lot when it comes to funding and support throughout the years. But it hasn’t stopped us with the goals and mission we have and are committed to.
I tell a lot of people, if it wasn’t for social media, our organization wouldn’t be what it is today. Because of the social media platforms, we are assisting survivors, parents, and caregivers across the US and globally.
The social media platforms have brought a lot of recognition to Angels of Epilepsy and our support for the community!
We’d love to hear the story of how you built up your social media audience?
Our organization Angels of Epilepsy is on all social media platforms. We share about our upcoming events, whether it’s virtual or public, as well as educational information and resources. We also share inspiration and motivation each day to brin a smile to someone. If we have any products for raffles or fundraisers, our social media has definitely caught the attention of many, and some have supported.
The best of all with having our nonprofit organization on social media is the connection that we have with the community we serve. We definitely share our support each day with the messages we do receive.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.angelsofepilepsy.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angels_of_epilepsy/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aoepilepsy
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-y-beavers-95166340/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/AOEpilepsy
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2k-IrRx0MIIpvCxpDX-PVg