Wednesday 26 March 2014

Purple Day









How much do you know about epilepsy?

- Epilepsy is a physical condition characterized by sudden, brief changes in how the brain works. It is a symptom of a neurological disorder - a disorder that affects the brain and shows itself in the form of seizures.
-Epilepsy is a disorder, not a disease; it is not contagious.
-Approximately 0.6% of the Canadian population has epilepsy. This includes those who take anticonvulsant drugs or who had a seizure within the past 5 years.

- Due to the stigma surrounding epilepsy and the prejudice with which society has historically treated people with epilepsy, many with the disorder are reluctant to admit it or to seek treatment. Thus the prevalence of epilepsy is likely much higher.
-Each day in Canada, an average of 42 people learn that they have epilepsy. From Epilepsy.ca


Beginning in 2008, Purple day was commissioned to raise awareness of epilepsy by a Canadian, Cassidy Megan who herself struggled with epilepsy. Purple day focuses on dispelling the myths of epilepsy and to connect people who suffer from this neurological disorder to help them realize that they are not alone. The next year in March 26th 2009, the event reached international success.

On March 26th 2014, I invite everyone to wear purple in support of this cause and to promote epilepsy awareness. As Canadians we owe our support to those who suffer under this disorder and to show them they are not alone in their struggle.