1. A body-worn portable device comprising: a strap for strapping the body-worn portable device onto a person; an input system for inputting detections parameters for a specific type of abnormal motion; an accelerometer or gyro sensor for measuring motion data; a memory storing settings for detecting the specific type of abnormal motion including at least characteristics of the specific type of abnormal motion; an algorithm for analyzing the motion data measured, comparing the characteristics of the specific type of abnormal motion to the motion data measured, and determining whether to send an alert based on the comparing; a processor that implements the algorithm and generates an indication that the abnormal motion may have occurred based on the algorithm; a housing for enclosing the memory and the processor; and a display being attached to the housing in a manner in which the settings for the specific type of abnormal motion or a status may be viewed, the input system being attached to the housing in a manner in which settings for the specific type of abnormal motion may be entered by the person, and wherein the specific type of abnormal motion includes a seizure.