We are excited to announce that UCB is the first corporate sponsor of Sail For Epilepsy in its brave and challenging sailing expedition in 2021 around the globe. The trip and goal of Sail for Epilepsy is to raise awareness of what it is like to live with epilepsy. This will be done by having educational talks during the preparation phase in New England and through online forums and at resting ports in various countries during the voyage. 

Philip Haydon is the President of Sail For Epilepsy and is also the Captain of the sailing vessel that will be circumnavigating the globe. Why is Phil looking to raise awareness globally about epilepsy? After a post-traumatic brain injury, he developed epilepsy, so Phil knows firsthand what it is like to deal with the ups and downs of having epilepsy on a day-to-day basis.   

When Phil was asked why he considered UCB as a sponsor, Phil responded that “after speaking to UCB I was thrilled that we both spoke about being inspired by people with epilepsy and we collectively wanted to find ways for them to lead fuller lives. This resonated with our Mission Statement; To inspire people with epilepsy to take one more step towards achieving a fuller life. We both had the same common goal.” 

UCB is a global biopharmaceutical company with more than 20 years of experience in epilepsy. Putting patients at the heart of everything they do, UCB is focused on delivering impactful solutions that inspire to give those with epilepsy a better patient journey. 

“Sail for Epilepsy’s journey across the globe and its potential worldwide impact created interest to us at UCB.  We saw this adventure as an opportunity to communicate, educate and energize epilepsy families across the world.  We look forward to working with Sail For Epilepsy and its other partnering organizations to maximize the shared epilepsy voice and message of inspiration and education.”

Rene Pierre Pinard, UCB New England Ecosystem Lead.