12/12/2024
It is with deep respect and gratitude that we acknowledge the passing of Jim Abrahams, an incredible advocate for epilepsy awareness and treatment, who left us on November 26, 2024, at the age of 80. While Jim was widely celebrated for his legendary contributions to comedy, including classics like Airplane! and The Naked Gun series, his work in the epilepsy community will forever remain his most profound legacy.
In 1994, after his son Charlie was diagnosed with epilepsy and struggled with ineffective treatments, Jim discovered the ketogenic diet—a therapy that changed Charlie’s life. This personal journey inspired Jim to found the Charlie Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting the ketogenic diet as a life-changing option for children and families affected by epilepsy.
Jim’s tireless advocacy transformed the lives of countless families. Through his efforts, he not only raised awareness of dietary therapy but also provided resources, hope, and a sense of community to those navigating the challenges of epilepsy.
The epilepsy community has lost a true champion, but his legacy lives on in every child whose seizures have been reduced or controlled, and in every family whose lives have been touched by his work.
Today, we honor Jim Abrahams for his vision, dedication, and compassion. Our thoughts are with his family, friends, and the countless individuals whose lives were made better because of him.
Thank you, Jim, for your unwavering commitment to making the world a better place for those living with epilepsy. You will never be forgotten.
Margaret Maye and The Epilepsy Cure Initiative Team
