What is Purple Day?

Purple Day is an international grassroots effort dedicated to increasing awareness about epilepsy worldwide. On March 26th annually, people in countries around the world are invited to wear purple and host events in support of epilepsy awareness. Last year, people in more than 85 countries on all continents participated in Purple Day! Canada is the only country in the world who officially recognizes March 26th as Purple Day through the Purple Day Act implemented on June 28, 2012.

Epilepsy Facts:

• Epilepsy is a neurological disorder of the central nervous system, specifically of the brain.

• 65 Million People Have Epilepsy Worldwide

• 1 in 100 People Are Estimated To Have Epilepsy

• In 50% of Cases the Cause is Unknown

It is characterized by the tendency to have recurrent seizures.

A person would be diagnosed with epilepsy if they have at least two unprovoked (or reflex) seizures, or one unprovoked (or reflex) seizure and are very likely to have another, or diagnosed with an epilepsy syndrome.

The International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) recently classified epilepsy as a disease, instead of a disorder, to better convey that epilepsy is a serious medical condition.

How to Help:

Even if you don’t think you know anyone with epilepsy (you do, you know me, at least through the magic of the internet!), familiarize yourself with the basics of Seizure First Aid. Here’s a helpful graphic:

Thanks for reading, and have a great Purple Day!