While no device has yet been proven to prevent SUDEP, the Danny Did Foundation is devoted to seeking out seizure detection and seizure prediction devices —as well as other technologies— that may assist in preventing deaths caused by seizures. We present these products as those we deem worthy of further review and investigation by anyone connected to seizure disorders.
The Danny Did Foundation cautions that not all devices listed on this page are approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration. Further, the Danny Did Foundation encourages and strongly recommends communication with the manufacturers of these products as well as consultation with doctors about these devices to determine the possible efficacy of such devices for your situation.
Please note, the Danny Did Foundation does not warrant these products and is not a manufacturer, distributor, seller, representative, or broker of the products shown on this website. The Danny Did Foundation offers only cursory and introductory information about the potential of these devices and does not accept responsibility for the consequences of the actual use of any device listed on this website.
Emfit Movement Monitor
Subsequent to outreach from the Danny Did Foundation and the Epilepsy Foundation of Greater Chicago, the Emfit monitor is in various stages of clinical testing trials at multiple epilepsy centers in the United States. This non-invasive detection device is widely used and marketed in Europe as an Epileptic Seizure Alarm. Learn more about Emfit here.
SmartWatch
The SmartWatch™ developed by Smart Monitor, is a motion detecting and alerting wristwatch. The device analyses motion patterns for abnormalities and automatically issues alerts upon the onset of various types of repetitive and excessive movements. Users can also summon help with a simple push of a button. The device records movement patterns plus the time and duration of any unusual events. SmartWatch can help alleviate fears that something could happen without being able to notify or get help in a timely fashion. The SmartWatch is fully portable and can be worn in and out of bed, during sleeping and waking hours, as the wearers go about their regular activities. The Premium version of the device – which includes GPS location, a ‘snooze’ feature, and the ability to alert multiple contacts – is now available. If you heard about the SmartWatch from Danny Did use the referral code “DDF” when placing your order. Smart Monitor can offer monthly payment plans for qualified candidates, contact them to learn more. For some qualified candidates, Danny Did may be able to provide financial assistance. Email tfstanton@dannydid.org to inquire. Learn more about SmartWatch here.
NeuroPace RNS (Responsive Neural Stimulation) System
A neurostimulator seizure prediction device connected to the surface of the brain, the RNS focuses on a closed-loop approach to interrupting and preventing seizure activity. The RNS is programmed to continuously monitor brain wave activity, to sense the onset of a seizure within a neural network, and to deliver seizure-stopping electrical stimulation once seizure activity is detected. NeuroPace is currently seeking FDA approval for its RNS system, which has been in clinical testing environments since 2004. In February 2013, the device gained the unanimous backing of an FDA advisory counsel, one step toward FDA approval. Learn more about the NeuroPace RNS system here.
Sleep-Safe ® Anti-Suffocation Pillow
Developed by a pharmacist whose son is prone to seizures while sleeping, the Sleep-Safe ® Anti-Suffocation Pillow is a registered Class I Medical device as categorized by the United Kingdom’s Medical and Healthcare Products Regulation Agency, which is the UK government agency responsible for ensuring that medicines and medical devices work and are acceptably safe. Learn more about the Sleep-Safe ® Anti-Suffocation Pillow here.
Masimo Rad-8 Pulse Oximeter
Pulse oximeters are non-invasive medical devices that typically attach to a fingertip or a toe to measure heart rate and blood oxygenation percentage —both vital statistics that are affected while a person is seizing. These devices are not explicitly designed or manufactured to detect seizures, but pulse oximeters do have applicable monitoring and alarm-sounding functions that can be useful to some who experience seizures. Please contact the manufacturer and your doctor to determine if a pulse oximeter fits into your sleep-time seizure-detection plan. Learn more information on the Masimo Rad-8 pulse oximeter here.
4 Paws For Ability Seizure Dogs
Seizure response dogs are a special type of service dog specifically trained to help someone who has epilepsy or a seizure disorder. Tasks for seizure dogs may include: summoning help by finding another person or activating a medical alert; pulling potentially dangerous objects away from a person’s body; “blocking” to keep individuals from walking into obstacles that can result in bodily injury or death; attempting to arouse an unconscious handler during or after a seizure; and carrying emergency medication and information regarding the handler’s medical condition. Further, some dogs may develop the ability to sense an impending seizure. Learn more about 4 Paws For Ability Seizure Dogs here. For additional information, visit the Chelsea Hutchison Foundation, which raises funds to pay for trained seizure-response dogs.
