2026 Arts & Healing Scholarship Recipients
Celebrating Creativity, Courage, and Advocacy
The Hidden Truths Project is proud to announce the recipients of the 2026 Arts & Healing Scholarship, a unique award created to support individuals living with epilepsy as they pursue higher education in the arts, advocacy, or healthcare. This annual scholarship honors the resilience, creativity, and determination of students and adults who are not only advancing their education but also making a meaningful impact on the epilepsy community.
The Arts & Healing Scholarship offers up to $1,000 in financial assistance to help cover the cost of tuition, books, and fees. Open to graduating high school seniors and adults across the United States living with epilepsy, applicants demonstrate both academic ambition and a strong commitment to advocacy or service. Whether through artistic expression, public awareness, or compassionate care, these individuals are transforming their personal journeys into sources of healing and hope for others.
We are excited to introduce our three 2026 scholarship recipients—each with a powerful story and a bold vision for the future.
Abigail Willson
My name is Abigail Willson, and I recently graduated from Technology High School in Rohnert Park, California. This fall, I will be attending Santa Rosa Junior College with plans to transfer to a four year university in two years. Throughout high school, I was the editor of my school newspaper, played varsity soccer, participated in archery, and was involved in theater. Living with epilepsy has taught me perseverance and has helped shape who I am. I hope to use my creativity and experiences to make a positive impact and encourage others facing similar challenges.
Bradley Buckthal
I graduated from Fort Walton Beach High School in Shalimar, Florida, ranking third in my class and earning an Associate of Arts degree through dual enrollment at the University of West Florida. I excelled in a rigorous academic schedule, earning President’s List honors and membership in the National Honor Society. I am an Eagle Scout and former Senior Patrol Leader, and also served as President of the Fishing Club and Captain of the JV Cross Country Team. I represented my community through the Okaloosa County Youth Leadership Council and the American Legion Boys State program, where I was elected Mayor and Senator.
I am dedicated to service, athletics, and personal growth, volunteering through scouting, church, and community organizations. I have shadowed surgeons, worked as a deckhand, and compete in baseball, cross-country, and archery at state and national levels. I enjoy the outdoors, am certified in CPR and First Aid, and will attend the University of Florida to study Health Science, aspiring to become a physician.
Elizabeth Perry
My epilepsy diagnosis has even further inspired my passion for helping others through service, advocacy, and compassionate healthcare. After being diagnosed earlier this year, I found a greater sense of purpose in supporting individuals with hidden disabilities and showing that a diagnosis does not define a person’s future. Volunteering at ECU Health and serving as a Canines for Christ therapy dog handler strengthened my desire to become an Occupational Therapist. I hope to help people overcome challenges and gain confidence in their daily lives. I want my work to encourage others to see that while challenges may shape us, they never limit what we are capable of achieving.
Jonathan Pelzar
I am a graduating senior at Bergen Catholic High School with a passion for neuroscience, medicine, and scientific research. My interest in the brain was inspired by my own experiences with epilepsy as a patient, leading me to pursue neuroscience research that was later published in the International Youth Neuroscience Association Journal and another in AP Research. Beyond academics, I am an Eagle Scout, hockey player, and community volunteer who values leadership, service, and lifelong learning. I hope to pursue a career in medicine, combining scientific innovation with compassionate patient care.
