Mraz Brewing Company declares war on epilepsy

On Saturday, March 14, Mraz Brewing Company will declare war on epilepsy with special event to raise money and awareness about a disorder that claims as many lives as breast cancer in the U.S. every year*.

Chris Simarro, father of brewery partner Justin Simarro, was stricken with epilepsy about 10 years ago. Initially contributing a series of small seizures to anxiety, Chris suffered his first grand mal seizure in April 2012. From that point on, the grand mal seizures grew in frequency and severity.

Chris has spent the years since his first major seizure working with doctor's to find a medication to aid his affliction. Unfortunately, that search has yet to yield any relief. Along with the continued seizures, Chris also deals with the side effects that surface with each new medication.

"We spend a lot of days at doctors appointments," explains Chris's wife Heidi. "His seizures have caused shoulder damage, resulting in having surgery on both shoulders to repair multiple tears last year. He had kidney failure, possibly from a virus, even a torn bicep." 

And of course, with ongoing treatment and prescriptions come the exorbitant hospital bills.

"It's sad when you debate calling an ambulance because you know you don't have a way to pay another bill," says Heidi.

The physical, emotional and financial burden is amplified by the fact that Chris is unable to work due to his condition. Heidi shoulders the load, but it takes a heavy toll. Fortunately, Heidi says their strength as a couple has helped them through the trying times.

"Chris and I have a strong relationship. We are very supportive of each other." 

Mraz Brewing Company places a huge emphasis on the value of family and supporting the ones we love. That's why we'll be hosting a fundraiser to help Chris and Heidi continue to search for help against a condition that strikes almost 500 new people daily in the U.S.

From 5 p.m. - 9 p.m. on March 14, 20% of the proceeds that go into the brewery till will go toward Chris's fight against epilepsy. North Border Taco Truck will be at the brewery from 4:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. serving up amazing authentic Mexican food. 

Come enjoy some delicious food and craft beer to help a father, husband and fellow craft beer enthusiast fight back against the crippling costs of epilepsy. 

*Statistics from Epilepsy Foundation (http://www.epilepsy.com/connect/forums/living-epilepsy-adults/epilepsy-stats-and-facts).