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Dean Naritoku, M.D., professor and chair of neurology, and professor of pharmacology, received the Heart of Gold award from United Way of Southwest Alabama. |
Naritoku was unanimously selected to receive the Heart of Gold award in education for his contribution to the Seizure Safe Schools Act.
The Seizure Safe Schools Act – House Bill 76 – allows for rescue medications to be accessible to young patients when a school nurse is not. This legislation was crucial for the more than 7,500 families who have children with epilepsy.
“I am very honored to receive the award and the recognition of the importance of care for children and those of all ages who are affected by epilepsy,” said Naritoku. “I have committed a lifetime to epilepsy patient care, research and education, so I was happy to provide my strong endorsement for the Seizure Safe Schools Act with the Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama.”
The award is given to one volunteer in each of four categories: education, health, financial stability and essentials. Each volunteer is nominated by another community member.
Sara Franklin, executive director for the Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama, nominated Naritoku. “Because of his help, the bill passed both chambers unanimously and was signed by Governor Ivey earlier this summer,” she said. “Dr. Naritoku was always willing to contact Alabama state legislators and instrumental committee chairs to emphasize the importance of this legislation.”
The Heart of Gold award is an annual recognition to honor volunteers for their dedication and service to the four counties of southwest Alabama: Choctaw, Clarke, Mobile and Washington.
