Probably one of the most challenging dilemmas facing people with epilepsy and parents of children with epilepsy are the questions of "if," "who," "when," and "how" to tell others about the epilepsy. There is fear of stigma and rejection. Yet there remains the need to reveal seizures before they reveal themselves without one's control. Telling others is the way to take control of the disclosure and ensure the best chance of acceptance and even support by others. This is the first of a set of four articles that provides the understanding and practical skills for revealing epilepsy and seizures to others. The author, a clinical neuropsychologist who has worked in the field of epilepsy research and education for over 25 years, begins with "why." Before the "if," "when," and "how" make any sense, one needs to know "why." The "why" explains just how important the "how" is to the parents and the child.