By Lucy Corkhill
25th March 2013
What is epilepsy?
Epilepsy is one of the most common chronic neurological disorders, characterised by recurrent seizures. Seizures vary, but may include a blank stare, muscle spasms, uncontrolled movements, altered awareness, odd sensations, or a convulsion. The location in the brain of the abnormally discharging nerve cells determines the form the seizure will take. Some people rarely experience seizures, whereas others may have several per day. Epilepsy medication can help to ensure a person remains seizure-free.
Wear Purple!
Purple Day, observed annually on 26th March, is a grassroots movement to raise awareness about epilepsy. The idea of Purple Day came from Canadian Cassidy Megan, in response to her own struggles with epilepsy. The Epilepsy Association of Nova Scotia came on board in 2008 to help develop Cassidy’s idea: to get people talking about epilepsy in an effort to dispel myths and inform those with seizures that they are not alone.
Get together with family, friends and colleagues this Purple Day to ‘get a mauve on to raise purple pounds’. The Epilepsy Action website asks: ‘Can you host a bake sale or dress down day? What about doing something more adventurous like a sponsored abseil or painting yourself purple? You can do anything to raise funds and awareness – just make sure its PURPLE!’ You can request a fundraising pack on their website featuring a purple-licious guide full of useful tips to help get you started, a sweepstake poster, balloons, stickers, an official Epilepsy Action ‘Purple collection box’, plus constant fundraising support and encouragement from their dedicated team.
To read a 14 year old’s inspirational account of living with epilepsy, including advice for those newly diagnosed, click here.
Resources
The Purple Day website includes a wide range of resources on different aspects of living with epilepsy
The Epilepsy Society website has loads of information on everything from benefits to research. Check out their ideas for memorable Purple Day events
The Epilepsy Action website is packed with support and advice for those with epilepsy and their families. Plus further ideas for Purple Day fun
For a listing of international Purple Day events and the opportunity to promote your own
The Young Epilepsy website has information for young people with epilepsy and their parents, including a teen seizure diary and advice for university and college students
