Epilepsy Awareness / Purple Day 2023: Date, History, Ways

Epilepsy Awareness Day, also known as Purple Day, is observed annually on March 26 to increase public understanding of this brain disorder and to eliminate the associated stigma and dread. Given that more than 3.5 million Americans and more than 50 million people worldwide have been diagnosed with epilepsy, it is likely that you know someone coping with the daily challenges epilepsy presents. The good news is that epilepsy is easily manageable if correctly diagnosed and treated; therefore, awareness and research are crucial. Today, join one of the local campaigns to increase awareness in your community.

The background of Epilepsy Awareness / Purple Day

Cassidy Megan from Nova Scotia, Canada, initiated the first Epilepsy Awareness Day on March 26, 2008. Inspired by her own epilepsy diagnosis and daily struggles, she realised the significance of everyone comprehending this common neurological disorder. She established a venue for people to learn, engage, and support the public’s education about epilepsy, as well as dispel misconceptions and fears about the condition.

Epilepsy is caused by electrical disturbances in the brain that result in various forms of seizures. It can be a frightening condition for those who do not comprehend it, which has led to numerous unnecessary assumptions and even laws regarding the disease and the capabilities of those who live with it. It is the fourth most prevalent neurological disorder, following migraines, strokes, and Alzheimer’s. One in every 26 Americans will develop epilepsy at some stage in their lives, according to estimates.

In 2009, the Anita Kaufmann Foundation partnered with the Epilepsy Association of Nova Scotia to establish Purple Day, bringing more collective attention and structured campaigns to the day’s purpose in the United States and abroad. In the same year, more than 100,000 students, 95 workplaces, and 116 politicians participated in Purple Day events.

The Anita Kaufmann Foundation registered Purple Day as a trademark in 2011 and has since expanded its scope.

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5 WAYS TO ASSIST A PERSON WITH A SEIZURE

If someone is having or about to have a seizure, remove any sharp objects from their vicinity, remove their eyeglasses, and position a pillow or your leg under their head, if possible.

Turn the patient onto their side to prevent them from choking on fluids and make sure nothing is in their airway.

Notate the duration of the seizure and inform the individual and medical personnel as necessary.

If the seizure lasts longer than five minutes or if injuries occur during the seizure, it may be best to contact an ambulance; otherwise, once the seizure has ended and the person has regained consciousness, they may need help calling loved ones.

Observing a seizure can be frightening, but keep in mind that most seizures stop on their own within a few minutes — knowing how to assist someone will enable you to remain focused and provide meaningful support.

EPILEPSY AWARENESS / PURPLE DAY DATES

Year	Date	Day
2023	March 26	Sunday
2024	March 26	Tuesday
2025	March 26	Wednesday
2026	March 26	Thursday
2027	March 26	Friday