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Author: CritUSA

What is Epilepsy?

By‎: TELETONUSA /

Epilepsy is a condition that affects the nervous system, specifically the brain. It is more commonly known as a seizure disorder described as “disturbances in the electrical activity of the brain,” according to the Epilepsy Foundation. Seizures can result from brain injury, genetics, brain structure or metabolic causes, or ultimately an unknown reason.  

According to the Epilepsy Foundation, to be diagnosed with epilepsy, “one must experience two or more seizures greater than 24 hours apart or after one seizure with a high risk for more seizures”. A seizure, which is a symptom and not a diagnosis, can affect how a person acts or appears for an allotted time. These may present differently for each person, and some can be more severe than others. 

Here are five things you should do if someone is having a seizure:  

  1. Turn the person onto their side if they are not awake to keep the airway clear 
  2. Time the episode and remain calm  
  3. Check for Medical ID  
  4. Do Not restrain the person  
  5. Call 911 if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes  

As over 3.5 million people are diagnosed with epilepsy each year, please help us bring awareness and support those with epilepsy by wearing purple during Epilepsy Awareness Day on March 26. 

From Your CRIT Counselor: Take 5

By‎: TELETONUSA /

At any given point, being an adult constitutes being busy all the time. Between work, home life, relationships, extra activities and unforeseen events, taking time for oneself is nearly impossible unless it is purposefully scheduled.

For some, taking time off for oneself produces feelings of guilt, selfishness or being unproductive. However, it is essential that we carve out time throughout the day for ourselves… especially as a caregiver. Self-care is a priority so we may take care of others. It has been said you cannot pour from an empty cup.

Take 5 minutes to sit and breathe, deep breathe and notice as you inhale and exhale. Stretch your arms and legs, wiggle your toes, clench your fists and then release. Something so simple can make a difference in our day. The internet is full of lists of activities we can engage in to relax or unwind. These are just a few: 

  1. Take a quick walk around your block or house
  2. Use your phone to take pictures outdoors
  3. Deep Breathing
  4. Stretch/exercise
  5. Call a friend
  6. Listen to music
  7. Read a book/flip through a magazine
  8. Watch your favorite show
  9. Laugh – even for no reason
  10. Craft – paint, make jewelry, sew, woodwork, etc.

Not every activity will work for every person. Try a few and see what works for you. What is important is that you make time for yourself.

From Your CRIT Counselor: New Year, New Opportunities

By‎: TELETONUSA /

Although we are already in February, it is never too late to make new resolutions or goals for the year.   In fact, it is important and emotionally healthy to have dreams and set goals for ourselves. When we have something to work towards, it provides us direction, purpose and hope. These goals can be short term and long term.

I encourage you that as part of this new year, and as a short-term goal, you make time for yourself.  Self-care is essential, a priority. Counseling can be a helpful tool in helping you establish goals, create a plan of action, and learn techniques to maintain a healthy emotional and mental balance in your daily life.

Atlas F.C. Gives Guest of Honor Title to CRIT Patient

By‎: TELETONUSA /

Atlas F.C., the reigning champion of the Liga MX League in Mexico named Moises, a CRIT patient, as its Guest of Honor during its recently friendly match in Austin. 

Moises and his family had the opportunity to spend time with the champion team of the 2021 Opening Tournament, and to pose next to their trophy when  Atlas F.C played Austin F.C. in Austin, Texas on Wednesday, February 16th.

This special night for Moises is part of an Atlas F.C. initiative called Valor Rojinegro program which promotes the safety and integration of children in sports.

Special thanks to Atlas F.C. and to the Q2 Stadium for this unforgettable experience for Moises and his family.

CRIT Hosts NDT Course

By‎: TELETONUSA /

CRIT hosted a special training course for physical therapists on January 29th and 30th. Twenty-six clinicians, with a blend of CRIT team members as well as therapists from across Texas, participated in our Neurodevelopmental Treatment (NDT) handling course in order to provide top-tier training focused on improving functional mobility for the children we serve. 

As one out of the nine facilities in the world recognized as an NDT “Center of Excellence“, CRIT is committed to serving our community through educational opportunities led by NDT therapists who offer individualized training on therapeutic handling techniques.

Instructor Jane Styer-Acevedo guided the workshop. The two-day course combined lecture, group problem solving, individual assessments, and treatment demonstration. 

CRIT Celebrates Three Kings Day with Gifts

By‎: TELETONUSA /

On Friday, January 7th, patients and their brothers and sisters celebrated Three Kings Day at CRIT with gifts and treats.

CRIT’s volunteer department organized the drive-thru gift-giving event in collaboration with the Puerto Rican Heritage Foundation and with the support of a grant from H-E-B.

One hundred children received presents during this annual CRIT tradition. Special thanks to everyone involved for making this event possible!

Click here and watch all the fun. Content is only available in Spanish.

CRIT Celebrates Holiday Season with Traditional Posada

By‎: TELETONUSA /

Santa showed up early to celebrate with children and their families at CRIT during our first Christmas Posada. There were games and dancing for the children. They also received presents from Santa and his elves and got the opportunity to whack a piñata.

The celebration ended with a traditional Posada. The MusCRITeers, teenage volunteer ambassadors, hosted this Buddy Program event. Special thanks to Belén Bordes, Joe A. Gamez Law Firm, Gourmet Bakery, Morales Event Decorator, Piñatas Monio, and volunteers for making this event possible.

Fashion Show Raises Funds to Support CRIT

By‎: TELETONUSA /

On Thursday, November 18th, CRIT’s 4th Annual Fashion Show took place at Estancia del Norte in San Antonio, Texas.

Organized by Gilda Canavati, the fundraiser showcased fashions by St. John Boutique and welcomed more than 20 vendors with various clothing, jewelry, and beauty products available for purchase. The show also featured live music from CRIT’s patient choir.

Special thanks to Arca Continental, IBC Bank, Gilda Canavati, Ana Carcur, Gilda’s friends, St. John Boutique, Milan Institute, Ovalle DJ Music, Ovlivion MKT, and the models for making this year’s fashion show a huge success.

All proceeds from this event benefit children and their families receiving rehabilitation services at CRIT.

CRIT Hosts Its First It Takes a Village Gala

By‎: TELETONUSA /

On Saturday, November 6, CRIT hosted its first “It Takes a Village” Gala, with nearly 150 people taking part in this fundraiser at the Thompson Hotel in San Antonio, Texas. 

The gala featured live music, a silent auction, and a live auction that showcased the work of renowned, contemporary artist, Abraham Mojica. One of the most popular of all the auctioned items was an artistic collaboration between Mojica and Camila, a child treated at CRIT.

Special thanks to Arca Continental, The Gambrinus Company, AEM, Luis & Luz, and the Dávila Family for making this gala possible. All proceeds from this event benefit children and their families receiving rehabilitation services at CRIT.

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