Seizure Free First Aid Virtual Trainings link June 24 https://bit.ly/45ya7om

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Welcome

Help Our Cause

Your support and contributions will enable KRPMF to  provide college scholarships; to raise awareness about Epilepsy & SUDEP;  to promote/support creative arts events that provide healing; and to  provide resources for those living with Epilepsy.

For those who prefer donating on Facebook, please go to the foundation's Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/kaylastrong2017), to make your secure donation.  Thank  you!

Pay with PayPal or a debit/credit card

SUDEP- Let's Talk About It with Bernard & Edana

Check out this video produced by the Epilepsy Foundation to talk about Epilepsy and SUDEP.  Co-Founders Bernard and Edana Perry share their personal experience of losing their daughter Kayla to SUDEP and encouraging families to become health advocates. For more information  from the Epilepsy Foundation click on the link  Epilepsy Foundation - YouTube 

KAYDAY 2022

KAYDAY2022- VIDEO- Annual Health and Wellness Event - Epilepsy Awareness

2025 Freshman College Scholarship

The deadline for Scholarship May 16, 2025

Friday, Jun 27 Due Date. 2025 High School College grads in the D/M/V area who are living with Epilepsy or pursuing Creative Arts  and are upcoming college freshman are encouraged to apply today. Share with family/friends. Click on the link below. https://form.jotform.com/ejperry/krpmf-scholarship-application-2025 or SCAN QR-CODE  Minimum award $1000


The Scoop

Who we Are

 

Kayla Ross Perry Memorial  Foundation (KRPMF) conceived in 2017 and was incorporated in the State of Maryland and approved as 501C3 non profit organization in July 2019 to raise awareness on Epilepsy, provide scholarships and sponsor events that highlight the creative arts for healing.

Epilepsy Awareness; Scholarships; Creative Arts

 

The mission of KRPMF is to provide scholarships for young adults aspiring to attend college; to raise awareness about Epilepsy and Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy(SUDEP); to provide information on the availability of community resources for those living with Epilepsy and to sponsor activities that highlight the creative arts for healing.

What you can do

With your financial support or by volunteering your time, the KRPMF will care and connect with our community to support youth , young adults and their families. #kaylastrong #karingkonnectingkommunity #KRPMF #NEAM2021 #RemoveTheFilter #NationalEpilepsyAwarenessMonth #EpilepsyAwarenessMonth #NEAM #Epilepsy #EpilepsyAwareness #SUDEP #sudepawareness 

2022 Fresman scholarship winner

Clifton R. Jones II, 2022 Scholarship Winner

Clifton or  CJ  as he is affectionately known by family and friends graduated from James Madison High School with a 3.81 GPA.  One of his high school outside activities included French Painting.  CJ will be attending "The University of the Arts" in  Philadelphia majoring in Video.  CJ has shared  that during the shutdown from COVID impacted his both his body and his mind.  As a result  he is determined to protect his physical and  mental health .  One of his quotes, "  Health is wealth and healthy living is his number one priority. : CJ is also an ally for those who live with Epilepsy and promises to  share his knowledge of  Epilepsy and SUDEP with his college  classmates.  The future is bright and we are in good hands with young  men like CJ.   In  August 2022, Cj was awarded a $1500 scholarship. 


The KRPMF salutes you and look forward to collaborating with you.  We can't wait to see your first film...







2022 (COTG) Freshman Scholarship Winner

Christian Inman, The First KRPMF COTG Scholarship Winner- 2022

Christian is the first recipent of the scholarship from the KRPMF for members of Children of the Gospel  (COTG)  Choir.  He is also a 2022 Senior who graduated from Bishop McNamara High School  with a  3.812 GPA.  He  has been accepted and will be attending Berklee College of Music ,Boston Campus majoring in Music, 


In addition to being a academic achiever,  Christian's high school activities included being in the Black Cultural Aliiance Club, Social  Activism Society and being inducted into the Thespian Honor Society.   His acting and vocal talents awarded him the opportunity to be a cast member of The Enchanted, Supporting Lead, Papa Tellier, Spring Musical and of the Sankofa Production - as a Vocalist.  


As a member of the COTG, Christian's melodious tenor voice  has also given him the opportunity to serve as a lead soloist, click on the link Performances & Music w/ Hyperlinks:  Children of the Gospel Performance at the Sixth & I Synagogue w/ Matthew Whittaker, February 2020:

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CDcRR5bHa95/



According to Christian,  how can he help spreading awareness about Epilepsy by, " Simply talking about it with people around me. Many people underestimate the power of communication and simply speaking to someone about something. One does not have to have millions of followers on social media, or have the most money on the planet to enact positive change in their community. "   Additionally, Christian  stated he could, " listen to those with Epilepsy, hear what they have to say and uplift their voices and support them during times like Epilepsy Awareness Month in November. "      In August, 2022, Christian was awarded a  $1500 scholarship.


As Christian transitions to Berklee to pursue his vocal dreams, we look forward to attending his next show!       




2022 Essay Contest Winner

Janay Suggs - 2022 KRPMF Essay Contest Winner

Janay is a 2022  Senior who graduated from Washington  Leadership High School in June.  She is pursuing her college education at the University of  the District of Columbia.    


The following is an excerpt from Janay's winning essay on " What Epilepsy Means to Me". 

"To be very honest, I had never heard of Epilepsy until Kayla Ross Perry’s passing.

On July 6, 2017 one of our close family friends passed away from this terrible disease.

We were devastated and heart broken to say the least, in particular, my siblings and I because we

had no idea.  


During my time of reflection, it has increased my awareness of this illness. I believe and think

wholeheartedly schools in particular, middle and high schools, should hold some type of class discussion on this topic, and so many others, like mental illnesses, just to insure everyone’s awareness is on the same page. 


We should all know what to do and whom to call, if ever at anytime we come across someone who’s having an episode. You could be the right person at the right time to possibly save someone’s life. The more you know and the more educated you are, the less scary it is and you’re better mentally to help. A lot of people are not aware of this disease, as I wasn’t until it happened to our friend Kayla Ross Perry.


What I would do to educate my classmates and friends, would be to invite them to the

Kayla Ross Perry Foundation’s website to get even more informed about this terrible disease. Next, I  would invite them to the annual KRPMF to see all of her loved ones"


Janay, with your insight, compassion and determination we know you are gonna be successful  in your pursuits and in spreading the news about Epilepsy









2021 Freshman Scholarship Winner

LaShaun Johnson - 2021 KRPMF Scholarship Winner

LaShaun is a 2021  Senior who graduated from Dunbar Senior High School in June with a 3.64 GPA. This creative, talented and intelligent young lady is attending University of District of Columbia pursing Fashion Merchandising. 


She was the founder of the modeling team Crimson Models. She was also a Majorette and served as an Ambassador for SNEAKERS,Inc. In her own words, "Having a passion for fashion places me in direct contact with my creativity. The same holds for those who have been diagnosed with epilepsy. No one living with this disease should have to feel alone, like an outsider, nor be viewed as someone walking with an inside ticking bomb ready to blow at any time. Just as fashion evolves throughout the years, trends and styles venture out more to support and advocate for those living with physical and emotional challenges, the local community, international and global regions must be provided with opportunities to be educated and aware of thee importance of unity without judgment."


The  Kayla Ross Perry Memorial Scholarship is important to me because the financial assistance will help me further my education, my career, and also help me maintain the legacy of Kayla whose goal and mission was to not be afraid of who you are, what you are facing but live in the moment. KRPMF looks forward to partnering with you LaShaun!


At the end of August,  two KRPMF board Members Bernard and Edana Perry, delivered the $1000 scholarship check to LaShaun and her family. 


Continue to influence your world and make it happen.  Shout out to LaShaun's family and village for being her foundation and cheer leading squad. 





2020 Freshman Scholarship Winner

Christen Carpenter is the 1st KRPMF Scholarship Winner

Christen is a 2020 Senior who graduated from  Academy of Health Sciences at Prince George's Community College. this past June.  Congratulations to Christen and her family on this great accomplishment.  After being accepted to several universities and colleges, Christen has decided to attend Stevensenville University in Maryland in the Fall.  She will be studying to obtain a Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Science and working towards a career as a Medical Laboratory Scientist.” 


Christen shares her plans on how she can educate her classmates on Epilepsy, " My plan is to use my tenure as a Service Scholar and cheerleader to educate my classmates and the Stevenson community by making Epilepsy education my platform. I can do this by keeping up with activities, walks and other activities posted by the Epilepsy Foundation and other organizations such as the Kayla Ross Perry Memorial Foundation. When these organizations post activities, my goal is to inform my Service Scholar group and cheerleading squad so that we can possibly participate in the posted activities. This in turn will serve as an opportunity to educate and reduce their fears and prejudices about Epilepsy ."  We look forward to partnering with you Christen.


On Saturday, August 15, 2020, two KRPMF board Members Bernard and Edana Perry, delivered the $1000 scholarship check to Christen and her mom. 


We are so excited for you and all that you will accomplish. Go Christen!


Kayla's Story

 

Kayla Ross is the youngest of three children born to the union of Bernard and Edana Perry, Her two siblings are Taelor Necolle and Christian Bernard. At the age of eleven Kayla was diagnosed with Juvenile-Myoclonic Epilepsy(JME), triggered by lack of sleep. Kayla and her family were set on ensuring that her life was not defined by the disease. Her story is far more than that of a fight against epilepsy. Kayla’s story, her song, is about love, faith, immeasurable strength, resilience, and defiance. Kayla’s song is a song of “in spite of” and no!


Growing up, Kayla sang in the children’s choir, she danced, tumbled, and played soccer. Kayla was an active member of the youth and young adult ministry at her church, there she also soared with the dance ministry, was a member of the Impact Teen Praise Team and sang in the Jr. Voices of Calvary youth choir. Kayla sang in the Washington Performing Arts - Children of the Gospel choir where she had the opportunity to sing with the choir for President Obama in 2009. Kayla was a singer, her whole life was a song.


Kayla’s love for music and her beautiful voice was one of the divine seeds planted within her being. Her voice was inspired by the music she loved; jazz, r&b, neo-soul, and gospel. She saw the world through music, from the melodies of soul to the rhythm of gogo, top 40, dance and trap music.


As a young woman, Kayla graduated from Montgomery College with her Associate's Degree. In March of 2017, she landed a position with HCD International as a Community Outreach Representative. She soon emerged as a leader among her colleagues, all while pursuing a certification in project management.


Kayla was stubborn, she was committed to living life on her terms, even if that meant bumping heads with the people she loved the most, her family. Kayla loved her family with everything in her.


We are committed to continuing Kayla’s legacy of strength, resilience, defiance, and deep love. On July 6, 2017, at the vibrant age of 26 years old, Kayla passed away suddenly from complications associated with Epilepsy-  SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death from Epilepsy).  


Her transition has been difficult for her family, friends and village.  Kayla touched many lives and her family has decided to celebrate her life, pay it forward and give back to the community. Her family wants to encourage others to never give up despite life's challenges!


The KRP Memorial Scholarship was established at Greater MT.Calvary Holy Church in 2017 to honor the life and legacy of Kayla Ross Perry and to provide funding for college student(s) who pursue the creative arts.  In August 2018, the first scholarship was awarded to Darin Bess. In July 2019, the next scholarship was awarded to Joelle Green. #kaylastrong

One of Kayla's graduation pictures from Montgomery College - May 2016.  We were/are so proud of her.

One of Kayla's graduation pictures from Montgomery College - May 2016.  We were/are so proud of her.

What Fuels our Passion

Epilespy and SUDEP

 What is Epilepsy? 

  • Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder and affects people of all ages.
  • Epilepsy means the same thing as "seizure disorders."
  • Epilepsy is characterized by unpredictable seizures and can cause other health problems.
  • Epilepsy is a spectrum condition with a wide range of seizure types and control varying from person-to-person.
  • Public misunderstandings of epilepsy cause challenges that are often worse than the seizures.

Statistics on Epilepsy


  • 65 MILLION: Number of people around the world who have epilepsy.
  • 3.4 MILLION: Number of people in the United States who have epilepsy.
  • 470,000: Number of children in the United States who have epilepsy.
  • 1 IN 26 people in the United States will develop epilepsy at some point in their lifetime.


What is SUDEP?


SUDEP is the sudden, unexpected death of someone with epilepsy, who was otherwise healthy. In SUDEP cases, no other cause of death is found when an autopsy is done. Each year, about 1 in 1,000 people with epilepsy die from SUDEP. This is the leading cause of death in people with uncontrolled seizures.  For more information click on the links below.


https://www.epilepsy.com/learn 


https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/healthy-living 


https://www.epilepsy.com/make-difference/public-awareness/aimforzero-striving-toward-future-free-sudden-unexpected-death 


http://knowsudepnow.org/


https://www.epilepsy.com/sites/core/files/atoms/files/SUDEP%20Institute%20Brochure%20Rev%2011-2018.pdf


https://www.epilepsy.com/sites/core/files/atoms/files/SUDEP_knowledgeispower_8.5x11_v4%204-2019.pdf


Get help with managing your epilepsy, click on this link  https://www.epilepsy.com/node/2000168 


24/7 support from the Epilepsy Foundation   

https://www.epilepsy.com/living-epilepsy/247-helpline


Epilepsy Foundation provides support for Families. Click on the link below for more information:

  • Accurate information regarding SUDEP and other causes epilepsy related deaths.
  • Individual or family support from a bereavement support facilitator who is also a mother who lost her daughter to SUDEP.
  • Enline bereavement support groups are designed to help families and individuals connect with others who have lost a loved one to epilepsy in a safe and confidential environment. We offer an Adult Support Group and a Young Adult Support Group. If you’d like more information about these groups, please email sudep@efa.org.

https://www.epilepsy.com/complications-risks/early-death-sudep/support-bereaved


One of Kayla's Instagram Selfies

One of Kayla's Instagram Selfies

Photo Gallery

Kayla's Floppy hat and Shade pose on Mother's Day 2016
Kayla's Tribe & Village who walked in the Apil 2018 Walk to End Epilepsy at The Mall in DC in honor
Kayla's Mom, Uncle Jeff and Dad pause for pic at the 2018 Walk to End Epilepsy
Welcome to the entrance to the first KAYDAY on May 2019
Kayla's  work photo at HCD International.
Kayla's tree at the Memorial Walk at Quiet Water Park October 2019
Auntie Monica Powell beautiful smile while she takes a break from kitchen duty at KAYDAY 2019

Whats Going On !

Kommunity Konnects thru Muzik- November 6th

Kommunity Konnects thru Muzik- November 6th

Kommunity Konnects thru Muzik- November 6th

KRPMF mission is to promote healing thru creative arts.  Join us for the Artist Showcase

It's free! Click on the link to register  https://bit.ly/34VczE7  


Visit us on FB

https://www.facebook.com/kaylastrong2017   or the Kayla Ross Perry Memorial Foundation FB Page.  

 

See below for more info on the event!


Past Event

Kommunity Konnects thru Muzik- November 6th

Kommunity Konnects thru Muzik- November 6th

In honor of our daughter Kayla's life and legacy, join our watch Party for Inspirational Songs, Zumba Sessions and Epilepsy Education . Go to 

https://www.facebook.com/kaylastrong2017   or the Kayla Ross Perry Memorial Foundation FB Page.     


Past Event

Kommunity Konnects thru Muzik- November 6th

Past Event

Banner for KAYDAY 2019

Saturday, May 4th we enjoyed a free community event that  included Health Tips, Spoken Word, Music, Zumba Sessions and Kids activities. 

Artist Showcase November 6,2020

KRPMF presents a nite of music

Kommunity Konnects Thru Musik - Relax with your favorite beverage from 7:00 pm to 8:00 pm  Listen to the sounds of Trey Austin, Brandon Seron Franklin and P. Anthony Morton.

You pick the T-shirt Design

Vote for your favorite T-shirt for Kayla Ross Perry Memorial Foundation  2021  during the showcase !

Registration is Free

Click on the link https://bit.ly/34VczE7  to register by November 4th.  

Share with your family Friends as we Kare for and konnect with our kommunity thru musik

Join us on FB live and Youtube 

Kommunity Konnects thru Muzik Artist Showcase Video November

 View the Video Here

To view on YouTube Click on the link

 https://youtu.be/WQrDMIUC0NA


or press the video below


KAYDAY 2020 Video

 2020 Virtual Edition - View the Video Here

To view on YouTube Click on the link 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Td9SIkEGqMs

2O2O Essay Contest Winner

Ms. Christen Carpenter - 2020 KRPMF Student Essay Contest winner

Congratulations! Christen is a  2020 graduating senior at the Academy of Health Sciences at Prince George's Community College. She plans to attend  a 4 year university in the fall. When Christen was diagnosed with Epilepsy in 2019, she began sharing her  story on her Instagram account to advocate and spread awareness about epilepsy, seizures, SUDEP and Seizure First Aid..  We salute Christen and agree with her slogan, " I refuse to allow Epilepsy to keep me from reaching my goal of obtaining my degree in Medical Laboratory Science and working towards a career as a Medical Laboratory Scientist.”  . Follow Christen on her Instagram page @4ever_dcu.. We will  be following Christen as she pursues her goal.  Go Christen!

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