Consider living with an illness that affects millions of people across the globe, yet continues to be covered with stigma and misconceptions. This is the plight of individuals who have epilepsy, a neurological disorder which affects the functioning of the brain and can lead to seizures.
As a means to encourage awareness and eliminate stigma, Purple Day was coined. This is an annual event aimed at raising knowledge of epilepsy and advocating for individuals diagnosed with it. However, what is Purple Day, why is it important for society, and how one can get involved?
Let’s take a closer look at the global movement for epilepsy awareness.
What is Purple Day?
Purple Day is a day dedicated for awareness of epilepsy, which is celebrated internationally on the 26th of March every year. This day, people from different parts of the world come together to:
💜 Promote awareness of epilepsy
💜 Support individuals who are living the with the condition
💜 Raise awareness of myths and misconceptions
💜 Foster candid discussions towards epilepsy
Why is it Called “Purple Day?”
The reason the color purple was chosen for the day is because it is commonly used in matters related to epilepsy awareness. In particular, lavender has been associated with calmness and the brain for quite a long time, which makes it a good candidate for purple epilepsy which is a calm\relaxed state of brain function.
💡 On march 26th people dress in purple, hold functions and disseminate information to demonstrate support for the epilepsy community.
The History of Purple Day: How It All Began
In 2008 Maggie Cassy Megan, a 9 year old girl from Nova Scocia Canada started an initiative called Purple Day.
Why Did She Start Purple Day?
Epilepsy was Cassy’s condition since a tender age, She later understood that a lot of people have no idea where the problem stems from. Stigma, fear and isolation were common occurrences she dealt with due to epilepsy.
To remedy that, she started and advocated for a dedicated day every year where awareness could be raised, discussions could be held, and necessary emotional support could be given.
She simply wanted to let everyone know that no single person is fighting this battle alone.
During the maiden Purple Day celebration in Nova Scotia in 2008, Cassidy partnered with the Nova Scotia Epilepsy Association and in 2009, her proposal was already a worldwide celebration, participated by 100 countries and over a million users.
Why is Purple Day Important?
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders; there are over 50m diagnosed patients in the world. Despite this widespread issue, there are a lot of false notions and misunderstandings that persist.
Key Reasons Why Purple Day Matters
Raising Awareness: Many people don’t know what epilepsy is or how to help someone having a seizure. Purple Day helps people learn about the condition and how to deal with it.
Breaking the Stigma: People suffering from epilepsy were discriminated against because of their condition due to a misunderstanding which was caused years ago. Purple Day helps eradicate such stereotypes.
Encouraging Open Conversations: People suffering from epilepsy are often ashamed of their condition, making it harder to talk about it. Purple Day encourages such conversations and helps people talk about it freely.
Supporting Research & Treatment: Increased awareness results in more funding, leading to better treatment options and improved support for individuals suffering from epilepsy.
Common Myths About Epilepsy (And the Truth!)
In this modern age, there are still many misconceptions associated with epilepsy. Here we attempt to shed light on the most poignant ones.
Myth 1: Epilepsy is contagious
Fact: Epilepsy stems from a neurological disorder, therefore can not be transferred like a disease. You can not catch epilepsy from someone else.
Myth 2: People suffering from epilepsy can not lead a normal life
Fact: A majority of individuals suffering from epilepsy can go to school, work, and have a normal day to day life. While some may deal with challenges, the disorder does not define them.
❌ Myth #3: If a person has a seizure, place something in their mouth.
✅ Truth: Placing an object in a person’s mouth during a seizure could lead to choking or injury. What is recommended instead is to roll the individual onto their side while ensuring that their head is protected.
❌ Myth #4: All seizures appear the same.
✅ Truth: There are numerous forms of seizures. Some can result in convulsions, while others might result in a person staring blankly or looking dazed. It is important to mention that not all seizures are as vivid.
❌ Myth #5: Epilepsy is not a common condition.
✅ Truth: Around 1 percent of the population suffers from Epilepsy, meaning that millions of people across the globe live with it.
Ways to Assist in Purple Day Activities
Participating in Purple Day is quite straightforward. Here’s how you can take part and make a contribution:
- Dress in Purple 💜
On March 26th, wearing purple clothing or even accessories like ribbons goes a long way in showing support.
- Post on Social Media 📢
Share and create staff about epilepsy, personal experiences, and Purple Day events. Active users of Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter can join in the celebrations. Suggested hashtags include:
🔹 #PurpleDay
🔹 #EpilepsyAwareness
🔹 #EpilepsyWarrior
- Get trained for Seizure First Aid 🆘
Learning how to react in the event of a seizure can be life-changing. In simpler terms, the procedures that you need to follow include:
✔ Shout and request others to step back and allow space.
✔ Carefully shift the individual onto their side.
✔ DO NOT place any object into their mouth.
✔ Keep track of the duration of the seizure. If it exceeds 5 minutes, contact emergency services.
- Consider Donating to Epilepsy Organizations 💰
A number of charities and research organizations are geared towards improving the treatment, awareness, and support of people suffering from epilepsy. Think about donating to the
🔹 Epilepsy Foundation (USA)
🔹 Epilepsy Society (UK)
🔹 Purple Day Organization (Global)
- Plan or Participat in an Awareness Campaign 🔔
Participate in local Purple Day walks, talks, and fundraisers, or go ahead organize one in your own community!
Countries That Celebrate Purple Day Globally
Purple Day is now a worldwide movement with events held in more than 100 countries such as:
🇺🇸 United States – Celebrated through the Epilepsy Foundation.
🇨🇦 Canada – The founding country of Purple Day!
🇦🇺 Australia – Has numerous public events and campaigns to spread awareness.
🇬🇧 United Kingdom – Endorsed by Epilepsy Action.
🇮🇳 India – Campaigns for education on epilepsy and reduction of stigma around the disease.
🇿🇦 South Africa – Strives to increase awareness among the youth and in communities.
Various governments, hospitals, and advocacy groups use Purple Day around the world to create awareness and support people with epilepsy.
Final Thoughts: Why Does Purple Day Matter
Beyond a dedication to sporting the color purple, Purple Day is an international initiative that strives to educate, raise awareness, and create a supportive environment for individuals with epilepsy.
Whether taking the time to learn about seizure first aid or posting about epilepsy on social media, every action contributes to something greater—and can drastically change another person’s life. All of those actions, in addition to donating to epilepsy research, amount to something meaningful.
Thus, wear purple on March 26 with pride and take the opportunity to advocate: People with epilepsy have nothing to be embarrassed about— and they are most definitely not alone in this world. 💜
FAQs About Purple Day
When is Purple Day celebrated?
Purple Day is celebrated every year on March 26.
Who started Purple Day?
It was started in 2008 by Cassidy Megan, an 8-year old girl from Canada who has epilepsy.
How can I participate in Purple Day?
You can wear purple, share epilepsy awareness on social media, learn seizure first aid, donate to epilepsy charities, or participate in community events.
Why is the particular color purple utilized for epilepsy awareness?
The calming and soothing nature of lavender purple is associated with the brain, and so, it is purple that represents epilepsy awareness.
In what way can a person assist someone suffering from epilepsy?
Support starts with learning, knowing how to and what to do during a seizure, and simply being compassionate, gentle, and willing.