Epilepsy foundation opens scholarship applications for Brevard students
Brandon Darling, left, enjoy time with his father Craig Darling. The Brandon Darling Epilepsy Scholarship is named in memory and honor of Brandon Darling.
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions worldwide.
The Central Florida Epilepsy Scholarship Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides client services, epilepsy education, community events and scholarship programs.
Scholarships range from $1,000 – $2,500 for post-secondary education, advanced college education or post-secondary vocational education.
The foundation's Brandon Darling Epilepsy Scholarship is exclusively for students who reside or attend school in Brevard County.
Brandon Darling was very young when he began to experience seizures. He was diagnosed with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome. His father, Craig S. Darling, remembers his son's passion.
"He was fascinated by dinosaurs and had every kind of dinosaur and era memorized by heart," he recalled. "He never complained about his condition, never made excuses, and embodied love in everything he did."
Darling passed on April 14, 2020, in his bedroom at his family home. His dog, Harley, was beside him the entire time.
In honor of Darling and his family's wishes, the Central Florida Epilepsy Scholarship Foundation is offering the Brandon Darling Epilepsy Scholarship to high school seniors, high school graduates or higher that have been affected by epilepsy, either personally or an immediate family member.
The deadline to apply is April 15. Applicants must submit an essay of 500 words or less, showing perseverance in overcoming obstacles, courage, community involvement and commitment.