Local woman entered in contest to raise awareness about disorder

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By Bridgette Outten, Staff Writer Updated 3:15 PM Thursday, March 11, 2010

SPRINGFIELD — A local woman who was diagnosed with a recently-discovered neurological disorder wants to raise awareness about the disease.

Kiera Echols, 22, consented to have her case discussed in a You Tube video that her physician, Dr. Chris Kobet, has entered in the 2010 Neuro Film Festival sponsored by the American Academy of Neurology Foundation.

Viewers have until March 17 to watch the video on You Tube. The film with the most views and ratings wins a $500 Fan Favorite award and will be featured at the Toronto festival in April to raise awareness about the disease.

The disorder, anti-NMDA receptor encephalitis, was discovered in 2007.

The encephalitis causes psychosis and mood changes — almost to the point of being manic — that are often misdiagnosed as the result of drug abuse or a mental disorder, Kobet said.

View the video on You Tube at http://www.youtube.com/neurofilmfest#p/c/B90313F0D99F14F8/52/dcd8_1CooZ8.

More on Echols’ story will be featured this Sunday, March 14 in the Springfield News-Sun.

Contact this reporter at (937) 328-0374 or boutten@coxohio.com.

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