Ben Affleck Highlights Personal Connection to Epilepsy at Care & Cure Institute Gala
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On 28 October 2026, actor Ben Affleck attended the 20th Anniversary Gala of The Care & Cure Institute (C&CI), a nonprofit organisation dedicated to improving the diagnosis and treatment of epilepsy in children. The event, held to raise funds and awareness about this pressing health issue, proved to be both an emotional and celebratory occasion, with Affleck sharing his personal experiences related to the condition.
As November approaches, which marks National Epilepsy Awareness Month, Affleck took the opportunity to speak about his deep personal connection to epilepsy. During the gala, he generously donated $100,000 to support the organisation’s mission and was recognised for his philanthropic efforts over the years.
Affleck poignantly addressed the audience, revealing the impact that epilepsy has had on his life. “Epilepsy isn’t abstract to me,” he stated. “I’ve watched people I care about deal with it, and I’ve seen how much it matters when a family can get in front of the right doctor quickly.” He shared sentiments reflecting on his experiences at UCLA, where he spent time with medical professionals dedicated to the care of children with epilepsy.
His appreciation extended to Andrew Gumpert and Mark Borman, the co-founders of the Care & Cure Institute, whom he praised for their tireless work in this field. “What you are doing is incredibly important,” he conveyed, highlighting the vital role that specialists play in the lives of affected families.
The gala proved to be a fundraising success, yielding nearly $2 million in contributions. Affleck took a moment during his speech to thank the other attendees for their generosity, stating, “You have really changed lives.” He encouraged continued efforts in raising awareness and funds, underscoring the shared responsibility of society to support children facing health challenges.
“None of us get to choose whether it’s our child or someone else’s child who gets sick,” Affleck reflected. “But all of us get to choose what we’re going to do about the children who do get sick. Twenty years ago you couldn’t find enough doctors for your kids, so you made more, and because you did, more than 350,000 children have been cared for by doctors you helped train. Let’s finish what you started.”
The Care & Cure Institute has made significant strides over the past 20 years, effectively addressing the shortage of trained specialists in the field of paediatric epilepsy. The organisation has focused on training physicians, enabling them to provide critical care to thousands of families in need.
Affleck’s involvement in the event has brought heightened visibility to the issue of epilepsy, a condition that affects approximately 600,000 children in the UK alone. By leveraging his celebrity status, he aims to inspire further awareness and action among the public.
Guests at the gala included prominent figures from various sectors, all united by a common goal: supporting children living with epilepsy and enhancing access to medical care. The enthusiasm expressed by the attendees throughout the evening showcased a commitment to the ongoing work of the Care & Cure Institute.
In conclusion, Affleck’s heartfelt speech and significant donation marked a memorable moment in the evening, reinforcing the importance of collective action in health advocacy. The night not only celebrated the achievements of the Care & Cure Institute but also reaffirmed the ongoing need for support and research in tackling childhood epilepsy, ensuring that future generations receive the care they require.