Because sleep deprivation can trigger seizures for many people with epilepsy, it’s natural to seek ways to monitor sleep on a regular basis. Do sleep […]
Author: Phil Haydon, Ph.D.
Emeritus Professor of Neuroscience, Tufts School of Medicine
Among Phil’s extensive list of scientific discoveries is the identification of key roles for non-neuronal cells of the brain in information processing and learning and memory, the mechanism by which these cells drive sleep after a period of sleep deprivation, as well as key discoveries in the field of epilepsy. His work has led to the formation of multiple biotech companies including GliaCure, which held clinical trials for Alzheimer's disease, and Naveris, which has developed a diagnostic for certain types of viral induced cancers that are currently widely in use in Medical Centers throughout North America. Phil is also an accomplished short-handed sailor and in 2024 was the overall winner in the double-handed division of the Newport Bermuda Race.
Practical Steps to Improve Sleep and Brain Health
Sleep is critically important—without it, we would not survive. Sleep allows us to consolidate memories and helps clean the brain. Our natural brain “flushing” system […]
Why Sleep Loss Is a Seizure Trigger
For a lot of people, a poor night’s sleep results in a grouchy mood, an extra cup of coffee, or an afternoon nap. For many […]
One Step Closer to Replacing the Ketogenic Diet for Epilepsy
Imagine a future where the ketogenic diet—a well-known treatment for difficult-to-control seizures—could be replaced by a pill. Such a pill would provide the same seizure-reducing […]
Raising Awareness in Aveiro
This weekend we drove to the coastal town of Aveiro, Portugal. Unfortunately, there is a bridge that is not tall enough to allow Ingwe to sail under it that prevented us from visiting by boat.
A Weather Delay
We knew when we left Horta that the current forecast wasn’t ideal but for the first couple of the days of the passage it would […]
An Ode to Wally
Dearest Wally, our time with you was all too short but you have left a mark on our memories (and our eardrums) that will not soon be forgotten.
Phil’s Reflections on Atlantic Crossing Adventure
It’s is about 1.5 days until arrival at Horta is predicted. This has been quite a passage for me. I have wanted for a long time to cross an ocean. Well, that’s pretty much complete. Was it worth it and what preparation was needed?
What, a catamaran?
When Phil called me, I had answered “yes” before I knew it. This passage is on the bucket list of many sailors. After having tried to organise this twice in vain with our sailboat Kalue, this seemed an unique opportunity.
Are you concerned about having a seizure when at sea?
This question surprised me, not because of question itself, but instead because of the emotion it brought out in me. I have had epilepsy for almost 50 years and have been seizure free for over 40 of those years but periodically the emotion of my epilepsy gets me.