STARS - Syncope Trust and Reflex Anoxic Seizures

PO Box 175
Stratford-upon-Avon
Warwickshire
CV37 8YD

Tel (Helpline): 0800 028 6362
Tel (Admin): 01789 450 564
Web: www.stars.org.uk
Best time to telephone: Helpline 24 hours; Admin Line 9am - 5pm Monday - Friday

Reflex Anoxic Seizures (RAS) occur mainly in young children but can occur at any age. RAS is also known by the following names: Stephenson's Seizure, White Breath Holding, Pallid Syncope. Unfortunately, because of the symptoms, it is known that RAS is often mis-diagnosed as temper tantrums, breath holding, or as epilepsy. The aims of the STARS group is as follows:

• To act as an information and support group.
• To bring about public and professional awareness of RAS thus avoiding misdiagnosis.
• To gather more information to aid research into RAS.

The STARS group offers the following services:

• Information on syncope, RAS and other non-epileptic seizures.
• RAS video showing natural attacks, ocular compression and media coverage.
• Links with similarly affected families, including understanding and friendship between parents.
• Newsletters, local and national meetings.
• The group is open to all - professionals, friends, families and sufferers of RAS.

The group supplies a wide range of information and reports on RAS, including the following:

• STARs leaflet
• School / toddler group / child-minders information leaflet
• Information for teachers
• Answers to everyday questions about RAS
• Coping with night terrors - a guide for parents
• Pallid syncope
• RAS may be frightening to parents but are nothing to worry about
• Fits, faints & funny turns

For further information please telephone or send a stamped addressed envelope to the above address.