2020 Top-Rated Nonprofit

Narcolepsy Network, Inc.

1,047 Pageviews Read Stories

 

 

Add to Favorites

Share this Nonprofit

Donate

Nonprofit Overview

Causes: Health, Specifically Named Diseases, Voluntary Health Associations & Medical Disciplines

Mission: Narcolepsy Network is a national patient support organization founded in 1986. We are a nonprofit organization that relies on member dues and donations to fund our basic programs. Our primary focus is to: • Educate and inform individuals with narcolepsy about this life-long neurological sleep disorder, available treatments and symptom management so they may be empowered to achieve the highest quality of life possible; • Provide emotional support and resources to patients, family members, and friends; • Encourage and assist in the formation of local support groups and other support systems; • Serve as a resource center for patients, medical providers, educators, employers, and members of the public; • Advocate for the interests of all persons with narcolepsy; • Promote early diagnosis, optimal treatment and scientific research; • Increase public awareness of narcolepsy

Community Stories

64 Stories from Volunteers, Donors & Supporters

ishika General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

11/02/2020

This organization helped me to realize I'm not alone. It is the reason I have been able to manage my condition and find a sense of optimism and hope even when I'm really struggling. It's a wonderful way to meet others who both share your experience and at the same time have their own unique experience with narcolepsy. Narcolepsy Network is exactly what the name touts, and it's a phenomenal way to get involved with advocacy, learn more about narcolepsy and how to cope, and find countless resources. Their annual conferences are always outstanding, with a wide range of panels, workshops, group discussions, activities -- the list goes on. They regularly seek opportunities to improve the organization and its events by soliciting feedback in order to better meet the needs of their members. Thank you for everything. I appreciate this organization more than words can express.

SilasH Client Served

Rating: 5

11/01/2020

Narcolepsy Network is a fantastic non profit. The staff is very knowledgeable and helpful to PWN. Their programs for children and teens with Narcolepsy are filling a much needed void.

Eveline Honig van V. Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/30/2020

Narcolepsy Network has been working hard to continue to serve its members and others in the narcolepsy community, even in very challenging times. There are free webinars now and weekly support groups for anyone who would like to join. The webinars or mini conferences have presentations on the latest in narcolepsy, legal help, medications and ways to cope. There are online webinars for very young kids and a parent as well as cooking webinars and more.

Previous Stories

Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/13/2017

I worked as Executive Director for Narcolepsy Network for almost 13 years now. It has been a very rewarding experience. I worked with many different board members and many of these board members put an enormous amount of time, energy and money into this great organization. We accomplished a lot in the last 13 years: we helped many of the fabulous programs grow and started several new programs. Our annual conference is one of our largest programs and we hear from new attendees every year that it has changed their lives in so many positive ways. We are very proud of our new Youth Ambassador program as well and are excited to welcome a whole new group of youth ambassadors again later in the month. We help people improve their lives, we provide education and resources, we raise awareness and we advocate for people with narcolepsy. Narcolepsy Network is the organization to go to for support and education!

Christine Davidson H. Client Served

Rating: 5

10/30/2020

Narcolepsy Network provides much needed support and education to people with narcolepsy and their families.

Previous Stories

Client Served

Rating: 5

10/30/2019

Narcolepsy Network has helped my family navigate our son's narcolepsy. When he was first diagnosed, we were left feeling lost and confused, until we found Narcolepsy Network! Their annual conferences are amazing! It was wonderful for our son to be able to meet other kids with narcolepsy.

kadf2020 Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/30/2020

This is a fantastic nonprofit that does so much to breakdown the stereotypes of narcolepsy.

CynthiaZorn Board Member

Rating: 5

10/30/2020

Narcolepsy Network's Youth Ambassador Program was instrumental in developing the self-advocate and advocacy skills for navigating narcolepsy effectively through all the challenges and opportunities of living with narceolpsey as a child and an adult.

Our daughter has flourished with the support, outreach and peer participation in this unique program for youth and young adults with narcolepsy. The organization as a whole provides the opportunity to meet others with narcolepsy of all ages with weekly virtual support groups, monthly educational webinars and in person seminars (when safe to do so), as well as governmental and legislative participation opportunities in order to positively affect the narcolepsy community locally and nationally.

Previous Stories

Board Member

Rating: 5

10/30/2019

Because our daughter was diagnosed with narcolepsy and cataplexy at age 10, it was suggested by her doctor that we contact Narcolepsy Network for support. For the past 9 years we have been members and supported by Narcolepsy Network with informative and fun conferences, educational newsletters, and most importantly the Youth Ambassador Program that our daughter became involved with at age 15. She has been a spokesperson and advocate around the nation as a Youth Ambassador for the past 4 years. The Youth Ambassador program has given her inspiration, education and empowerment. Narcolepsy Network has provided a comfortable community where our family can flourish.

cgarnette Board Member

Rating: 5

10/28/2020

When my daughter was diagnosed with Narcolepsy, joining the Narcolepsy Network made her feel like she was not alone. It changed her life and gave her the support she needed from people who understand her.

Keith H.1 Board Member

Rating: 5

10/27/2020

Narcolepsy Network has made an immense impact on my life, and for my entire community. The work that the organization does is so important.

Previous Stories
2

Board Member

Rating: 5

10/30/2019

Narcolepsy Network has changed my life—it's an incredible organization dedicated to connecting, educating, and advocating for people with narcolepsy everywhere.

Read more
1

Luis Ortiz Board Member

Rating: 5

10/18/2020

It is difficult enough to have Narcolepsy and being able to help others with their own journey with Narcolepsy is truly rewarding. The board is open to new ideas and motivated to do the best for its members. The COVID19 Pandemic has been difficult for many people and Narcolepsy Network has risen to the challenge to provide education and support for people with narcolepsy.

Previous Stories
1

Board Member

Rating: 5

08/21/2019

Narcolepsy Network helped me use my skill set and experience to help others with narcolepsy. Its difficult to have Narcolepsy and being able to help others with their own journey with Narcolepsy is truly rewarding. The board is open to new ideas and motivated to do the best for its members.

SharonO Board Member

Rating: 5

09/18/2020

I have served on the Board of Directors of Narcolepsy Network for several years now. I love its mission of advocating for and supporting people with narcolepsy. This year, I am especially proud of our Youth Ambassador program, our CONNECT program for younger kids, and the additional online support groups we are fostering since our nationwide in-person supports groups can't meet because of COVID. We are a member-supported organization, and those member dollars help us fund these important outreach programs. Between its members, its leadership, and its staff, Narcolepsy Network does a great job of supporting people with narcolepsy.

Previous Stories

Board Member

Rating: 5

08/21/2019

Narcolepsy Network connected me to critical resources when I was first diagnosed with narcolepsy. My first conference was life-changing...meeting other people with narcolepsy for the first time in my life and attending the conference sessions helped me adjust to the diagnosis when I really needed to know I could still be productive and happy despite being thrown such a curve ball. I am so grateful to Narcolepsy Network that I have volunteered for them for many years. Great organization!

Read more

Mscmcd14 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

11/03/2019

Our son has Narcolepsy, a fairly rare disease. I cannot count the number of times I’ve turned to the Narcolepsy Network for support and information. It is truly invaluable to have a place to go where others understand the experience of having Narcolepsy.

Gabrielle M.3 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/31/2019

When my son was diagnosed, this organization was wonderful. Each time I reached out with a question or concern, I received a response. Many times it was a phone call. I was trying to figure out extended testing accommodation for the ACT and SAT and they were extremity helpful. I was put in touch with someone who was very familiar with the process and she helped me through it.

Toriwilliams13 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/30/2019

Narcolepsy Network has allowed me to understand more about my disorder and connected me with other Narcoleptics that I would not have met otherwise. This community has been immensely supportive and helpful in not feeling alone and being proud of who I am and making me comfortable with sharing my story. I’m extremely fortunate and grateful to be apart of their organization as a youth ambassador.

Louise Paiva O. Board Member

Rating: 5

10/30/2019

When my daughter was diagnosed at 15 years old, I contacted Narcolepsy Network to gain information and support. I have been going to their annual conference since 2006. The conference is the staple of this non-profit. I have gained so much knowledge, support as well as friendships.

rhampton1920 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/30/2019

I was diagnosed with narcolepsy type 1, several years ago and Narcolepsy Network has been a godsend. This organization has provided me with a wealth of resources and information to help me live my best life and advocate for myself.

To me, Narcolepsy Network means empowerment and a supportive community. I've met wonderful people who also have this diagnosis and the most knowledgeable doctors in the country who come to the annual conference and actually spend time connecting with, and educating narcoleptics and their families and friends.

I can't say that I love having narcolepsy, but I do love and appreciate the Narcolepsy Network!

1

Heidi C. H. Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/30/2019

Upon my diagnosis, Narcolepsy Network was the first place I was able to meet another in person with the same diagnosis-- which was life changing. I have been able to obtain information, support, and resources, all while making crucial connections with others. It has been a great source of inspiration, motivation, and empowerment for me. Thank you, Narcolepsy Network!

foothill Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/30/2019

The Narcolepsy Network has been a great organization to provide answers and support to my family while we went through the diagnosis of type 1 narcolepsy. As a concerned parent, it was wonderful to know I had a group of individuals who were willing to listen to my concerns and address my family's needs. The Narcolepsy Network has been instrumental in helping me start, and successfully maintain, a narcolepsy support group in my state. I am very appreciative of everything this group has to offer.

Jennifer B.29 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/30/2019

Narcolepsy Network has allowed me to connect with people from across the country who have the same disorder that I do. Before finding NN, it was very difficult to find others who could relate to what I’m going through because of how rare narcolepsy is. I am now a youth ambassador and recently attended the annual conference in New Mexico and had a wonderful time learning and connecting with other narcoleptics.

kdf25 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/30/2019

Narcolepsy Network has dedicated staff and board members who make it their mission to educate the public about narcolepsy, a rare disorder. Every year, nearly 400 narcolepsy patients and their supporters gather for their annual conference. Attendees walk away with the latest updates and knowledge, but also with a sense of feeling understood. Many have said it is truly life-changing.

Previous Stories
1

Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/27/2016

This is an amazing nonprofit that works towards educating the public about a rare disorder. NN puts on a one-of-kind conference that draws renowned narcolepsy doctors and researchers from around the world. NN works hard to break down stereotypes and advocates for a community who often feels invisible.

Alexander F.1 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/30/2019

I am a Youth Ambassador of the Narcolepsy Network and the Narcolepsy Network has helped me in many ways to overcome my Narcolepsy. Thank you

1

mitdoc Board Member

Rating: 5

10/27/2018

When my daughter was diagnosed with narcolepsy in 2004, I found Narcolepsy Network to be an invaluable source of information to help her and our families. Fourteen years later I am still involved due to their commitment to make things better for those with narcolepsy everywhere!

rach1234 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/18/2018

Narcolepsy network has helped me connect with real people who have the same condition I do. Everyone is very helpful and considerate.

1

MHShonka General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/18/2018

I was a senior in high school when I was diagnosed with narcolepsy with cataplexy. I had unknowingly suffered from the disease since fourth grade. Upon diagnosis, I had to come to terms with how much my disease had effected my life. I wasn’t lazy or dramatic I simply had an autoimmune disease. I attended my first narcolepsy network conference shortly after my diagnosis. There I met people who faced the same challenges I did and understood what I was going through. The following year I was chosen to be a youth ambassador for this organization. During that training I met college students that were navigating accomadations as well as the difficult task of becoming individuals despite still needing help with things such as driving, or doctor’s appointments. The Narcolepsy Network has granted me life long friends and tools to deal with everyday struggles. I cannot thank this organization enough for allowing me to not feel alienated by this hurdle in life and for teaching me that I can achieve my goals and succeed in life despite sleeping through a majority of it.

Ssunshyne06 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/17/2018

Narcolepsy network has brought awareness to me in understanding how families can support their loved ones with the disease.

CMF01 Board Member

Rating: 5

10/17/2018

I recently joined the Narcolepsy Network as a board member. Since becoming a member, I’ve learned so much about the disease. I have a daughter who is 12 and diagnosed with Narcolepsy around 5 years old. The network provides support, education, and resources which helps to bring clarity in the midst of trying to navigate through what seems like a world of confusion. It’s a great network, I’m excited to be a part of.

Lovely01 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/16/2018

The Narcolepsy Network has really been a breath of fresh air. They have provided so much education and insight for me and my family. The amount of support this network provides is valuable beyond words! Thank you!

leshnae General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/16/2018

The Narcolepsy network has helped to education me and my family about the disease. My niece was diagnosed at a really young age. With the networks help, we have become more aware of the disease and how it impacts her life.

Mark228 Board Member

Rating: 5

07/10/2018

I have been involved with Narcolepsy Network for over 14 years. The organization continues to be the "go to" source for all things narcolepsy. Their efforts have improved awareness among the medical community and influenced the FDA to expedite new treatments and dosing ranges.

Previous Stories

Donor

Rating: 5

08/27/2017

When my daughter was diagnosed with narcolepsy and cataplexy, the Narcolepsy Network was the one I turned to learn more about the conditions. Attending their annual conferences have been the events which have led to increased awareness, improved treatments, and acceptance. Thank you NN!

Read more

Emily157 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/16/2017

The Network has been an amazing source of support since I was diagnosed over 10 years ago & it continues to provide new resources & programs that impress me & really make a difference for all PWNs. I always recommend them to anyone I meet who has been newly diagnosed

Previous Stories
2

Client Served

Rating: 5

10/28/2016

This network is an amazing resource for people like myself who suffer from Narcolepsy. The info, support & resources they provide are invaluable as well as the awareness they raise for this misunderstood & under diagnosed condition!

Shannon Burkoth General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/13/2017

When I was diagnosed with narcolepsy in 2010, the doctor basicly told me I had narcolepsy and handed me a brochure for the Narcolepsy Network. It was through the Narcolepsy Network that I learned about my condition and realized what I was facing. The resources available on their website are invaluable to both patients and their support systems. Narcolepsy Network has been instrumental in raising awareness and providing support to those of us living with narcolepsy. I am especially proud of the youth ambassador program and informational products they design and distribute to help advocate for students and people in the workplace. The yearly conventions are a place where you feel normal and empowered by the presence of others facing this rare disease and making life long connections. Thank you for all you do for all of us!

NNSM Board Member

Rating: 5

08/28/2017

I am a Board member of The Narcolepsy Network. My work has been tremendously awarding. The Network provides vital resources and support to those with Narcolepsy and loved ones with narcolepsy. My daughter was diagnosed with narcolepsy in college. Without the Narcolepsy Network she would not be living a main stream life today. Thank you NN for the fabulous work you do!!

Previous Stories
1

Board Member

Rating: 5

10/26/2016

The NN is a fabulous organization that provides tremendous resources and support to this afflicted with narcolepsy. Their annual conference was this past weekend. It was well organized and very informative. The speakers and staff provided the hundreds of attendees with very much needed support and information. Overall, it was a great success!

Louise34 Donor

Rating: 5

08/28/2017

My daughter was diagnosed at the age of 15. I have gained so much knowledge and built lasting relationships with so many different people associated with Narcolepsy Network. Well it has been 13 years and I am proud to be part of Narcolepsy Network. I donate numerous times during the year. The Annual Conference is a life changing opportunity for PWN and parents.

Previous Stories
1

Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/26/2016

Narcolepsy Network has helped me become educated on what Narcolepsy is and how to help my daughter advance with management of medication and awareness. Thank you NN for guiding me and allowing me to help others.

Jason131 Volunteer

Rating: 5

11/01/2016

I am proud to be a member of the Network. It is an invaluable resource for anyone living with or supporting someone with narcolepsy.

hemie Client Served

Rating: 5

10/31/2016

I was diagnosed with Narcolepsy almost 20 years ago. I don't remember
how I found the Narcolepsy Network but I am and will always be so grateful that I did!!!
My role for this review is "Client Serviced" . I want to change that to "Client will always be served" Once a PWN joins the NN they become part of a global organization that embraces and welcomes you with open arms into "the family". We are brothers and sisters and we are bonded for life. The connection is unreal....The NN is all about US!!! They share resources, create awareness, fundraise for research, even fight when necessary to protect us. The officers are volunteers
and totally selfless. Thank you NN for having my back, getting me, not judging me, helping me, teaching me and guiding me. I have had my share of challenging moments struggling,feeling all alone and so frightened and terrified but I always found my way back. Always with the help of the Narcolepsy Network THANK YOU❤️...xoxo

2

Sharokina P. Advisor

Rating: 5

10/28/2016

I can see how the Narcolepsy Network conference benefits its attendees each year. They bring the best medical professionals and researchers as well as other speakers to talk about topics that are all beneficial to helping those with narcolepsy. The organization - including the board and staff - really care about the attendees and want to make sure they can have the best experience possible.

1

sleepyguy19 Donor

Rating: 5

10/28/2016

Being diagnosed with Narcolepsy can be a scary and disheartening experience. The NN community is helpful in so many ways, and it's great to see and get to know so many people who not only just cope, but excel and succeed in so many facets of life.

1

Writer Client Served

Rating: 5

10/28/2016

Each year the NN conference gets better and better, you can really see the growth of the organization. And they are popping up in the news more and more which is a big benefit not only to those who've had narcolepsy for years, but especially to those recently diagnosed. Their online information for people with narcolepsy has proved valuable for me and my family many times and is a great resource for newly diagnosed patients and their families.

1

Heather282 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/28/2016

My husband was diagnosed with narcolepsy in 2011 and everything changed for us after that. We thought it was the end of the world with this diagnosis; meaning that he is no longer able to drive long distances anything over 15 minutes, no long trips unless I drive, needing to find a new job that understands that he needs naps everyday, and I'm sure about having a family. 5 years later we have moved closer to family for extra support and help when needed and we now have two beautiful children along with us building a house which he is managing most by himself, and working a full-time job. Narcolepsy has changed our lives but for the better and with the help of this network organization we found support and no longer felt alone. We have met great people through this organization and still keep in touch to this day. Once things settle down with our family I will be getting more actively involved because it made such a difference for our family. Thank you narcolepsy Network for all your support and help!
-Heather Dudeck

1

rahulkakkar Board Member

Rating: 5

10/28/2016

It is one of the most hard working and creative group of people who work to help PWNs and their families and friends. I am a professional and a board member and I have learnt a lot by coming to their conferences and speaking to the members. The members creativity and intrigue aroused a big research interest amongst professional community recently. It is the narcolepsy network community who raised questions about safety of undergoing anesthesia and sedation, a topic hitherto largely outside the radar of sleep research and anesthesia research. Now leading experts in both specialties are coming together to do more work in this field. Hats off to all the members and board members for facilitating this.

1

mldoh Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/27/2016

I first found NN on Facebook and then quickly learned that it is an organization of caring people working hard to educate and spread awareness about Narcolepsy... an illness that changed my life 10 years ago and continues to affect me every day. The work they are doing is so important to an otherwise invisible group of people.

1

narcaplexy Client Served

Rating: 5

10/27/2016

I don't know where I would be today without having had Narcolepsy Network in my life for the past six years. Having an "invisible condition" can be difficult, and the isolation of not knowing others who share your condition can make it that much harder to manage. Of the many programs and services it offers, I am most thankful for Narcolepsy Network's wonderful conferences it hosts each year which brings together patients, their supporters, and physicians, for a weekend full of education, awareness, and inspiration.

1

cannin314 Client Served

Rating: 5

10/27/2016

Narcolepsy Network is a great organization that actively supports its members. They are active in offering advice and guidance to set up and run local support groups. NN Also puts on a yearly conference for patients, professionals, and supporters of those with Narcolepsy. The conference is so well run and informative that I try to attend every year.

1

JoyceAS55 Volunteer

Rating: 5

10/27/2016

Years ago I was diagnosed with Narcolepsy. I searched the web and found the link to Narcolepsy Network. From there I joined! It became the best thing I could ever do! I started getting quarterly newsletters. I would read every word - sometimes over and over again. I went to my first conference and it changed my life. Ever since then they have given me support, knowledge, comfort, and made me believe that I AM NOT ALONE!!!!

1

Attila S. Professional with expertise in this field

Rating: 5

10/27/2016

A familiar network with so much enthusiasm and dedication to help patients with narcolepsy get a better life.

1

khaupi1 General Member of the Public

Rating: 5

10/27/2016

We appreciate all the work they do to raise awareness for narcolepsy.

1

Writer Board Member

Rating: 5

10/27/2016

Helps people with Narcolepsy and Hypersomnia along with they're supporters.

1 keith_harper

keith_harper Board Member

Rating: 5

10/26/2016

When you join Narcolepsy Network, you're joining a family. The annual conference is an absolutely amazing annual gathering of people with narcolepsy, researchers, advocates, supporters, and friends. I am not being hyperbolic when I say that the conference is a life-changing event. I have never felt so connected to such a large group of people, so quickly, in my entire life.

1

coreyrocks1994 Board Member

Rating: 5

10/26/2016

The NN is a fabulous organization that provides tremendous support to those afflicted by narcolepsy. We just returned from our annual conference. It was well organized, had very imformative speakers, provided a wealth of knowledge to those attending and overall was a fabulous event.

Need help?