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Alan Faneca, a 2021 NFL Hall of Fame inductee, is tackling the disease he has battled since age 15: epilepsy. Steps Toward Zero is a movement with the mission of educating, inspiring and activating the epilepsy community.
Watching the big game this weekend? #DYK there have been many football players like @afan66 who have had successful careers as pro athletes while managing #epilepsy? #StepsTowardZero pic.twitter.com/R40eP9gt2W
— SK Life Science, Inc. (@SKLifeScience) February 11, 2022
First Episode
Faneca was a freshman in high school when he experienced his first epileptic episode. When it occurred on Christmas Eve at his great-grandparents’ house, he said he was upset and confused about what was going on. Following the episode, he visited doctors and got tested. Approximately two weeks later, Faneca was diagnosed with epilepsy, resulting in several more months of doctors appointments to help find the best possible treatment to combat the disease. Doctors determined that Faneca’s epilepsy was not hereditary.
Steps Toward Zero encourages people with epilepsy to engage in productive conversation with their doctors about optimal treatment plans.
Faneca Gives Back
Faneca has not strayed far from the football field during retirement. He’s in his second year as the head football coach at Cox High School in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Boasting a 7-2 record with the Falcons rolling into the playoffs.
Initially, his intention was not to get into coaching after his time on the field ended. However, after he stepped away, he felt drawn to give back to the game he loves.
Your Next Steps
From discussion guides to resources that help prepare for conversations with doctors, the Steps Toward Zero website provides information to support people with epilepsy. In addition, there are opportunities to connect with other people walking through similar struggles.
