Ben Affleck's Generous Donation Boosts Pediatric Epilepsy Care
A Major Contribution to Pediatric Healthcare
This week, actor and director Ben Affleck made headlines by donating $100,000 to The Care & Cure Institute, a significant gesture aimed at enhancing pediatric healthcare. The announcement was made during the organization’s 20th Anniversary Gala, which took place on October 29, 2026. This event was focused on improving access to specialized medical services for children suffering from epilepsy.
The gala was a remarkable success, raising close to $2 million in total. These funds are designated to train pediatric epileptologists, addressing the urgent need for specialists capable of managing the intricate requirements of children diagnosed with epilepsy.
Affleck's Personal Connection to the Cause
A Personal Commitment to Healthcare Advocacy
During the gala, where he received recognition for his continued support of the institute, Affleck shared his personal ties to the cause. He expressed that his awareness of epilepsy stems from observing the experiences of those close to him, emphasizing the importance of quick access to appropriate medical expertise for families facing a diagnosis.
Reflecting on his experiences with healthcare professionals at UCLA, Affleck pointed out the significant difference that specialized training can make in patient outcomes. He redirected the focus from his own donation to the collective efforts of all donors and medical personnel present, stating, "None of us get to choose whether it's our child or someone else's child who gets sick, but all of us get to choose what we're going to do about the children who do get sick."
Celebrating Two Decades of Progress
Two Decades of Specialized Medical Training
The Care & Cure Institute was founded in 2006 by Andrew Gumpert and Mark Borman, who were motivated by their own challenges in obtaining specialized care for their children diagnosed with epilepsy at birth. Since its inception, the organization has aimed to connect families in need with the limited number of trained pediatric epilepsy specialists.
Over the last 20 years, the institute has made remarkable progress in medical education, supporting 57 pediatric epilepsy fellows and establishing partnerships with six prominent hospitals. According to the organization, the doctors who have completed their training have provided care to over 350,000 children. The funds raised during the recent anniversary gala will further this mission, ensuring that fellowship programs remain a priority to enhance the availability of expert care for families nationwide.