About Us
A home for the epilepsy community, built with love in Charleston.
To serve those affected by epilepsy in all communities in Charleston, SC through education, inspiration and advocacy.
Est. 2020 — born from one woman's journey
Founded by JenVon Cherry in June 2020, Epitome of Epilepsy fills a gap in epilepsy education within Charleston's communities of color. What began as one woman's determination has grown into support groups, first-aid certification trainings, galas, retreats and statewide advocacy.
The City of North Charleston proclaimed November 4 as Epitome of Epilepsy Day — the very date our inaugural Jewels of Epilepsy Gala lit up the city in purple.
What guides us
Education
Resources that help individuals and families truly understand epilepsy.
Community
Safe, inclusive spaces for connection and peer support.
Support
Guidance for managing the condition and navigating healthcare.
Research
Championing epilepsy research and advocating for increased funding.
Awareness
Reducing stigma through events, social media and outreach.
Advocacy in Action
From testimony to law: Bill #935
Our founder brought her story to the State House — testifying about what it means to live and work with epilepsy in South Carolina, where more than 45,000 people share that reality. Bill S.935 directs the SC Department of Public Health to create official seizure first-aid materials and requires state agencies to post them where everyone can see them.
It passed the House vote in 2026 — a major step forward for protecting lives and building a safer future. And this is just the beginning.
Leadership
The people behind the purple
JenVon Cherry
Founder & CEO
Diagnosed with epilepsy at age 6 after a traumatic brain injury, JenVon turned a lifetime of defying expectations into a movement. She holds a Bachelor's in Communication from Benedict College, has served in education for 20 years, and founded Epitome of Epilepsy in June 2020.
Melissa Stephens
Vice President
A 17-year veteran teacher and Reading Interventionist in Sumter County, Melissa is also an associate minister in the African Methodist Church. She joined the epilepsy community in May 2022.
Dwan Young
Secretary
An HR professional at Kraft Heinz, Dwan serves as a board member for the Delightful Thinkers nonprofit and is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Duane Harvin, Sr.
Treasurer
Owner of Black Oak Insurance Services with 25+ years in insurance and financial services. A Wofford College graduate with an MBA from Webster University.
Partners & Sponsors