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Arts & Entertainment

Epilepsy Foundation Long Island to Host Special Advance Screening of Under the Lights at The Space at Westbu

Writer and Director Miles Levin to Attend Screening for Special Q&A and Conversation Shining a Light on the Silent Struggles of Epilepsy

The Epilepsy Foundation Long Island will host a special advance screening of the groundbreaking feature film Under the Lights at The Space at Westbury on Monday, June 8th. Miles Levin, the film’s writer and director, will be in attendance for a special introduction to the film and an intimate Q&A discussion following the screening. The evening is designed to bring the Long Island community together through storytelling and meaningful conversation to spread awareness surrounding epilepsy and seizure disorders.

Under the Lights tells an incredibly powerful story that reflects the often-unseen challenges individuals living with epilepsy face every single day,” said Lisa Burch, President & CEO of the EPIC Family of Human Service Agencies. “We are proud to bring this important film to Long Island as part of our ongoing mission to educate, advocate and create greater understanding surrounding epilepsy and seizure disorders. Through storytelling and shared experiences, we can help foster compassion, awareness and support for individuals and families impacted by epilepsy.”

Writer, Director and Executive Producer Miles Levin will join the Epilepsy Foundation Long Island for the special advance screening in person to introduce Under the Lights, participate in an exclusive Q&A session following the film and offer complimentary signed posters for attendees. Through both the film and the conversation that follows, Levin aims to create a space where individuals and families impacted by epilepsy can come together, feel seen and engage in meaningful dialogue surrounding the realities, challenges and unique experiences often associated with living with epilepsy, while also helping educate those who may be unfamiliar with epilepsy and the profound impact it can have on individuals and families every day.

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The groundbreaking feature film centers around belonging and the universal truth that everyone carries a silent struggle. The story follows a teenager who risks everything for one unforgettable chance at prom, first love and feeling normal, despite the dangerous realities his epilepsy may bring to the night. Featuring an acclaimed cast including Nick Offerman, Lake Bell, Mark Duplass, Randall Park and Marin Hinkle, Under the Lights is among the first major feature films to bring epilepsy into sharp focus while exploring themes of identity, vulnerability and acceptance.

“Education and awareness surrounding epilepsy are critically important because seizure disorders impact individuals and families in ways many people may not fully realize,” said Irene Rodgers, Chief Development & Engagement Officer of the EPIC Family of Human Service Agencies. “Events like this create an opportunity to open conversations, challenge misconceptions and help people better understand the social and medical realities that individuals living with epilepsy experience every day. Awareness leads to empathy, support and ultimately a stronger community for everyone affected.”

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The Epilepsy Foundation Long Island continues to serve as a leading resource for education, advocacy and support services for individuals and families impacted by epilepsy throughout Long Island. The organization provides Seizure First Aid Certification training, the Seizure Smart Schools program, law enforcement and direct care staff education, advocacy initiatives and community outreach efforts aimed at improving safety, understanding and quality of life for those living with epilepsy and related disorders. Through programs like this special film screening, the organization continues to elevate awareness while helping individuals feel seen, supported and connected.

Tickets for the special advance screening are $20 and include admission to a pre-screening cocktail reception, the screening, Q&A session, signed poster opportunities and additional event experiences. Tickets can be purchased online at: https://bit.ly/UndertheLights0608826

The Epilepsy Foundation Long Island, a member of the EPIC Family of Human Service Agencies, helps raise awareness and provides vital advocacy, education and resources for the more than 35,000 Long Islanders who have been diagnosed with epilepsy and experience seizures. The organization works to support individuals and families impacted by epilepsy through community education programs in schools and healthcare settings, advocacy initiatives and outreach efforts designed to promote understanding and inclusion. The Epilepsy Foundation Long Island also offers Seizure First Aid Certification training to help equip Long Islanders with the knowledge and skills needed to provide immediate care for someone experiencing a seizure.

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