AWARD. Elinor Ben-Menachem, a long-time adjunct professor at Sahlgrenska Academy, has been awarded one of the world’s finest prizes in epilepsy research–the American Epilepsy Society’s Founders Award. “I am delighted,” says the 77-year-old doctor and professor, who is still active both as a clinician and researcher.
What does this award mean to you?
“For me, it’s like receiving the Nobel Prize. I’m delighted! To have the importance of my work recognized in this way at my age is wonderful.”
The award is being given for your lifelong contribution to epilepsy research and your findings. Can you explain what your work involves?
“I’ve worked as a neurologist specializing in epilepsy since 1982. My life has always been dedicated to helping patients with epilepsy. I’ve never been a manager or member of any kind of management team; my main focus has always been on face-to-face patient contact, identifying new treatments, and conducting clinical trials. Epilepsy surgery is amazing, but it can only help a small portion of patients with epilepsy. I’ve tried to come up with other forms of treatment, for example, I brought vagus nerve stimulation to Europe, together with neurosurgeon Lars-August Augustinsson. I didn’t get much support for the idea, but it’s now an accepted form of treatment all over the world.”
You are a professor and are still involved in research collaborations at Sahlgrenska Academy. What do you do there?
“I’m still conducting clinical trials and working with colleagues around the world on various research projects. I also work for Aleris as a neurologist and as a consultant at Skaraborg Hospital.”
What will you do with the USD 10,000 prize money?
“I’m going to give a lot of it back to AES, to encourage young researchers. After that we’ll see. I’m pretty good at giving my money away!”
You’re travelling to Louisiana in December to receive the award. What will you say in your talk?
“I’m going to thank the University of Gothenburg, the Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, and Neurology at Sahlgrenska University Hospital. Over the 40 years that I’ve been involved in this work, the hospital has always allowed me to do what I feel is important for my patients. Particularly Åsa Lundgren Nilsson, who is the current head of the department. She’s the best boss I’ve ever had.”
BY: MAJA LARSSON / SAHLGRENSKALIV
