Purple Day

THROUGHOUT March, communities around the world are dedicated to raising awareness of epilepsy, culminating in Purple Day on March 26 (International Epilepsy Awareness Day). During this time, people wear purple and hold events to raise funds and awareness of the condition that will affect more than 800,000 Australians in their lifetime, and 50 million people worldwide.

Sadly, due to social stigma and misconceptions, many people with epilepsy do not disclose their condition and live in fear of being ‘found out’.

This Purple Day, Epilepsy Action Australia would like to encourage communities to shine a light on epilepsy by lighting up purple a local landmark and raising funds for community education services to better the lives of those affected.

Interventions by Epilepsy Action Australia can help increase understanding in our communities, such as epilepsy awareness sessions, seizure first-aid training, and the Online Academy, which offers several courses about epilepsy for parents, carers, schools and healthcare professionals.

I would encourage your community to support Purple Day during March by simply making a donation or getting involved (www.epilepsy.org.au).

Please help shine a light on epilepsy this Purple Day and put your region on the map.

On behalf of all Australians living with epilepsy, thank you in advance to your readers for supporting Epilepsy Action Australia.

Your support helps to reduce isolation and ensure people living with the condition are able to live the best life possible.