Newly Diagnosed

We know that a KCNQ2 diagnosis can be overwhelming. You may be confused, scared, frustrated, or uncertain—and your emotions may change from day to day, sometimes even hour to hour.

As parents of children with KCNQ2, we know what it's like to feel overwhelmed and isolated – especially in the days and weeks after your child's diagnosis. But we're here to tell you there is HOPE for you and your child.

I could never have known on that diagnosis day that what seemed like a lonely time would become a wonderful world of people who love our child just as much as much as we do.

– Marilyn Maloney

You are not alone. You are now part of KCNQ2 Cure: a network of families, researchers, clinicians, and other professionals who are determined to make a difference. Our community of families and experts are available to help you navigate your journey.  

KCNQ2 is a very rare disease, first identified in 2012. As a result, your doctor may not be familiar with KCNQ2, and you may need to take the lead in learning more about your child’s condition from our KCNQ2 community.  

KCNQ2 affects many aspects of a patient’s life, so we encourage you to take a comprehensive approach; making sure your child is on the best medications for the treatment of seizures or other symptoms, being sure to engage with all of the specialists who may be helpful – from geneticists to neurologists, to gastroenterologists, evaluating potential vision or hearing issues, and engaging therapists to address physical, cognitive and speech issues as early as possible. 

Our Recommendations/Checklist

Download A Parent's Guide to KCNQ2 developmental and epileptic encephalopathy

parent handbook

Download Parent Handbook

Our families have created a list of recommendations for newer families. These are a good starting point for learning more about KCNQ2, resources, link to our parent support group, and we invite you to read the welcome letters from families also affected by this disorder.

  • Genetic Report

    Request and keep a copy of your child's genetic report. As science advances and research opportunities arise having a copy of the report which lists your child's sequence variant will be instrumental.

  • Support groups

    Connect with other families via our KCNQ2 parent support group – KCNQ2 Cure hosts an international parent support group allowing you to connect with other families both in your area and around the world. In addition to becoming part of the KCNQ2 family, connecting with others in your country, state, or region will provide you access to those who are familiar with the resources in your local area.

  • Contact Registry

    Add your information to the KCNQ2 Cure contact registry. The purpose of this registry is to make sure we have the most current contact and demographic data for individuals with KCNQ2 developmental and epileptic encephalopathy and their families in order to keep them updated on the latest research, clinical trials, and KCNQ2 news.

  • Welcome Letter

    You will find yourself amongst friends here, all with the common goal of helping our children and finding a cure. We are passionate about educating and supporting patients, families and caregivers affected by KCNQ2. Through our site you can find valuable resources, hear from others who live with KCNQ2, and learn more about our commitment to the parent community. Read our family welcome letter.

  • Frequently Asked Questions

    Review our list of frequently asked questions here.

  • Create a Seizure Diary

    Creating an online seizure diary through the Epilepsy Foundation is a helpful way to track and report seizure data for those who need it.

  • Seizure Action Plan

    Develop a written plan regarding what actions to take in the event of a seizure, with the help of the Seizure Action Plan from the Epilepsy Foundation.

  • Informational Videos

    Watch videos from past KCNQ2 Cure Summits and informational webinars which will provide you with the latest research, understanding of KCNQ2, and resources.

  • Caregiver Notebook

    Download and fill out the Child Neurology Foundation's respite care notebook for any times you may need to leave your child in another person’s care, so that they have all of the important information needed to care for your child in your absence.

  • Rescue Medications

    Understand all medications and proper use of rescue drugs, ensuring you have plenty on hand. 

  • Understand SUDEP

    Understand the risk of SUDEP (ask your epileptologist about whether a monitor could be useful).

  • Medicaid Waiver (US only)

    In the United States, it is possible to apply for a Home & Community-Based Waiver (HCBW), TEFRA, or Katie Beckett Waiver. The HCBW is a federal waiver that is intended for children up to eighteen years of age with a qualifying chronic disability. This program entitles children to Medicaid coverage who would not otherwise qualify due to their family’s financial status (children may qualify independent of family income). This program is administered on a state-by-state basis and varies greatly depending on the state. However, most states have a waiting list, so it is helpful to sign up as soon as possible. The HCBW can be obtained by contacting your local Department of Family & Children Services. Other families in the KCNQ2 Cure family support group may be able to offer helpful suggestions about applying in your state.  More information is also available at http://www.kidswaivers.org/