Epilepsy Awareness / Purple Day 2023: Epilepsy Awareness Day, also known as Purple Day, is observed annually on March 26 to increase public understanding of this brain disorder and to eliminate the associated stigma and dread. Given that more than 3.5 million Americans and more than 50 million people worldwide have been diagnosed with epilepsy, it is likely that you know someone coping with the daily challenges epilepsy presents. The good news is that epilepsy is easily manageable if correctly diagnosed and treated; therefore, awareness and research are crucial. Today, join one of the local campaigns to increase awareness in your community.
HISTORY OF EPILEPSY AWARENESS / PURPLE DAY
Cassidy Megan from Nova Scotia, Canada, initiated the first Epilepsy Awareness Day on March 26, 2008. Inspired by her own epilepsy diagnosis and daily struggles, she realized the significance of everyone comprehending this common neurological disorder. She established a venue for people to learn, engage, and support the public’s education about epilepsy, as well as dispel misconceptions and fears about the condition.
Epilepsy is caused by electrical disturbances in the brain that result in various forms of seizures. It can be a frightening condition for those who do not comprehend it, which has led to numerous unnecessary assumptions and even laws regarding the disease and the capabilities of those who live with it. It is the fourth most prevalent neurological disorder, following migraines, strokes, and Alzheimer’s. One in every 26 Americans will develop epilepsy at some stage in their lives, according to estimates.
In 2009, the Anita Kaufmann Foundation partnered with the Epilepsy Association of Nova Scotia to establish Purple Day, bringing more collective attention and structured campaigns to the day’s purpose in the United States and abroad. In the same year, more than 100,000 students, 95 workplaces, and 116 politicians participated in Purple Day events. The Anita Kaufmann Foundation registered Purple Day as a trademark in 2011 and has since expanded its scope.
Memory issues, seizures in epilepsy might have a common cause
HOW TO OBSERVE EPILEPSY AWARENESS / PURPLE DAY
Take part in a regional or national event
Check out what’s happening in your area and encourage your friends and family to participate in Epilepsy Awareness Day events. Anyone with a brain can have a seizure, and anyone with a brain can assist those with epilepsy. Therefore, YOU can assist today!
Don magenta
Today is the perfect day to wear your beloved purple shirt, shoes, or pants! You can show your support with jewelry, a hat, a tie, or other entertaining accessories in addition to the essentials.
Become a Purple Day Representative
If there is no Epilepsy Awareness Day event planned in your city, you can register to be a Purple Day Ambassador through the Anita Kaufmann Foundation. Purple Day Ambassadors organize grassroots events in their workplace, school, and community not only on Epilepsy Awareness Day but also on other days! Check out www.purpledayeveryday.org for information on how to become an ambassador and for amusing and original ideas for your campaign.
5 WAYS TO ASSIST A PERSON WITH A SEIZURE
Prevent injuries
If someone is having or about to have a seizure, remove any sharp objects from their vicinity, remove their eyeglasses, and position a pillow or your leg under their head, if possible.
Eliminate choking concerns
Turn the patient onto their side to prevent them from choking on fluids and make sure nothing is in their airway.
Timing the fit
Notate the duration of the seizure and inform the individual and medical personnel as necessary.
Request assistance
If the seizure lasts longer than five minutes or if injuries occur during the seizure, it may be best to contact an ambulance; otherwise, once the seizure has ended and the person has regained consciousness, they may need help calling loved ones.
Remain composed
Observing a seizure can be frightening, but keep in mind that most seizures stop on their own within a few minutes — knowing how to assist someone will enable you to remain focused and provide meaningful support.
WHY EPILEPSY AWARENESS / PURPLE DAY IS IMPORTANT
It enhances comprehension.
Despite the fact that the number of Americans with epilepsy is greater than those with autism spectrum disorder, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy combined, research funding for epilepsy is a minuscule fraction of that for the other conditions. Epilepsy Awareness Day brings much-needed attention to this condition.
It eliminates stigma and anxiety
Fear and prejudice can be eradicated through education. People with epilepsy, particularly in less developed nations, are likely to encounter stigma and discrimination, which can be more burdensome than the disease itself. Epilepsy Awareness Day contributes significantly to the global education of individuals.
We adore violet!
Nearly 40% of individuals state that their preferred color is purple. According to some sources, people who are passionate about the color purple are also great humanitarians and are quick to assist those in need; these are ideal qualities for an ambassador in epilepsy education and support!
EPILEPSY AWARENESS / PURPLE DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | March 26 | Sunday |
| 2024 | March 26 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | March 26 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | March 26 | Thursday |
| 2027 | March 26 | Friday |
