Epilepsy is a neurological disorder caused by disruptions in the electrical activity in the brain, resulting in seizures of different types. On March 26 every year, people across the globe celebrate Epilepsy Awareness Day, also known as Purple Day, to increase the public’s understanding of this condition and eliminate the resulting fear and stigma. It’s important to note that over 3.5 million people are diagnosed with epilepsy in the United States and over 50 million worldwide, and this only underscores the need for creating awareness of this condition.
Epilepsy Awareness / Purple Day Date
The first Epilepsy Awareness Day was held on March 26, 2008, in Nova Scotia, Canada, and was founded by Cassidy Megan, who suffered from epilepsy herself. Since then, Purple Day has grown into an international event celebrated annually on March 26th to raise awareness of epilepsy and the challenges faced by those who live with it. This year, Purple Day falls on a Sunday, and it’s an excellent opportunity for everyone to show support for people living with epilepsy.
Epilepsy Awareness / Purple Day History
Cassidy Megan founded Epilepsy Awareness Day in 2008 with a goal of raising public awareness of epilepsy and eliminating the myths and fears surrounding it. The disorder has been stigmatized and misunderstood for a long time, leading to unnecessary assumptions and even laws about the disease and the capabilities of those who have it. Given that epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder, after migraines, strokes, and Alzheimer’s, it’s critical to set the record straight.
In 2009, the Epilepsy Association of Nova Scotia partnered with the Anita Kaufmann Foundation to launch Purple Day in the United States, bringing more attention and structured campaigns to the day. That year, over 100,000 students, 95 workplaces, and 116 politicians participated in Purple Day events. The Anita Kaufmann Foundation trademarked Purple Day in 2011, and since then, Purple Day has grown exponentially.
How To Observe Epilepsy Awareness / Purple Day
Participate in a local or national event
Several cities and towns organize Epilepsy Awareness Day events to raise awareness of the condition. You can check what’s happening in your area and invite family and friends to join you. The motto is “Anyone with a brain can have a seizure, and anyone with a brain can help those with epilepsy.” It’s an open invitation for everyone to participate.
Purple Wear
Wearing purple on Epilepsy Awareness Day is a great way to show support for people living with epilepsy. You can wear your favorite purple shirt, shoes, pants, or even accessorize further with jewelry, a hat, a tie, or other fun accessories. Get creative and show your support!
Become a Purple Day Ambassador
If there aren’t any planned events in your city or town, don’t worry. You can apply to be a Purple Day Ambassador through the Anita Kaufmann Foundation. As an ambassador, you can spearhead grassroots events in your workplace, school, church, and community to raise awareness of epilepsy, not only on Epilepsy Awareness Day, but also throughout the year. Visit www.purpledayeveryday.org to find out more about the Purple Day Ambassador program and for unique and exciting ideas for your initiative.
Prevent injuries
It’s essential to know how to prevent injuries when someone is having a seizure. Remove sharp objects near them, remove eyeglasses if they wear them, and place a pillow or your leg under their head to prevent them from hitting the ground. This will help prevent injuries or bumps to their head.
Prevent choking hazards
If someone is having a seizure, turn them onto their side so that they don’t choke on fluids or anything they may happen to have in their mouth. This will help prevent choking hazards.
Time the seizure
It’s crucial to note how long the seizure lasts and inform the person and medical personnel at the appropriate time. Knowing the duration of a seizure can help doctors in determining the appropriate treatment for the patient.
Call for help
If a seizure lasts more than five minutes or causes injuries, it’s best to call an ambulance. Once the seizure is over, the person may also require assistance in calling loved ones.
Remain calm
Watching someone go through a seizure can be frightening, but it’s important to remain calm. Most seizures stop on their own within a few minutes, and being able to assist someone during a seizure will allow you to stay focused and provide meaningful support.
Epilepsy Awareness / Purple Day Activities
There are several other activities to participate in on Epilepsy Awareness Day. These activities include:
- Hosting a fundraiser for epilepsy research
- Creating posters and flyers to display in public places to raise awareness of epilepsy
- Participating in a charity walk to raise money for epilepsy research
- Organizing a discussion forum to share your experiences living with epilepsy
Importance Of Epilepsy Awareness / Purple Day
Raising understanding
Epilepsy is a condition that affects a significant number of people globally. The issue is that despite affecting many people, the funding for epilepsy is small compared to other health conditions with fewer cases. Epilepsy Awareness Day brings much-needed attention to the disorder, raising understanding of its impact on people’s lives.
Eliminating fear and stigma
Individuals living with epilepsy often experience discrimination and stigma, leading to difficulties that are more challenging to navigate than the disease itself. Epilepsy Awareness Day contributes immensely to the enlightenment of people worldwide, eliminating the fear and prejudice directed towards people with epilepsy.
Epilepsy Awareness / Purple Day Captions & Status
1. Don’t judge someone by their seizures; Everyone deserves dignity and respect.
2. Together we can break the stigma, one purple day at a time.
3. It’s time to educate, eliminate fear, and raise awareness!
4. EPICALLY seizing the day in my purple, for those with epilepsy!
5. Illuminate the purple path towards a better tomorrow.
6. Showing off my PAW-some attire for Purple Day to support those with epilepsy.
7. Honoring the warriors and the survivors of epilepsy, let’s raise awareness!
8. Purple is the color of royalty, and in greuling against epilepsy, you ARE a true queen or king.
9. Today, I wear purple for all the fighters who are battling seizures.
10. It’s not the seizure you see, but the person beneath it; Love, acceptance, and support can go a long way.
FAQs
How many different types of seizures exist?
Over 40 different types of seizures have been identified. Not all seizures come along with convulsions or jerky body movements. Some are labeled “vacant” where the individual is in a trance or a confused state.
How is epilepsy diagnosed?
There is no single test used to diagnose epilepsy, but among the ways to do so are electroencephalogram (EEG), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), CT scan, blood-glucose testing, along with electrolyte and calcium testing.
What causes epilepsy?
Epilepsy arises from various factors, primarily from brain injury, trauma, stroke, or infection. In more than 50% of epilepsy cases, the cause is unknown.
Conclusion
Epilepsy Awareness Day, or Purple Day, has grown into an internationally recognized event. The day is critical for promoting education, increasing understanding and eliminating fear and stigma surrounding epilepsy. There are many ways to participate, from wearing purple to hosting your local event, or becoming a Purple Day Ambassador. By shining a spotlight on epilepsy, we can create a more inclusive world and provide support to those who need it most. So let’s get involved, show our support, and raise awareness to make a difference!