Turning Stories into Action
Purple Day is observed every year on March 26. It is a global initiative to raise awareness about epilepsy. The efforts of Cassidy Megan, a young Canadian girl (an epilepsy patient), led to the observation. Purple was chosen because the colour is often associated with solitude, which reflects the feelings of isolation many people with epilepsy experience. Epilepsy is a chronic disorder characterised by recurrent seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. ~1 in 100 people are affected by epilepsy. Epilepsy has been recognised for over 3,000 years, evolving from mystical interpretations to a scientifically understood neurological disorder. India, China, and the US have the highest absolute number of epilepsy patients, with Ecuador and Nigeria having the highest number of incidences of epilepsy. Epilepsy is not always a lifelong condition. Diagnosing it early and providing treatment improves the chances of seizure control. The most significant disability in life is a bad attitude, not epilepsy.
Purple Day Encourages Communities
To Move Beyond Awareness
into Advocacy, Inclusion, And Support.
Purple Day is observed every year on March 26 as a global initiative to raise awareness about epilepsy. The aim is to provide support to those affected and reduce stigma. The origin of “Purple Day” lies in the efforts of Cassidy Megan, a young Canadian girl (an epilepsy patient herself), who sought to dispel myths and reduce the stigma associated with epilepsy. With support from the Epilepsy Association of Nova Scotia, the initiative quickly gained global recognition and is now observed worldwide. Purple was chosen because it is often associated with solitude, which reflects the feelings of isolation many people with epilepsy experience.
Epilepsy is a chronic disorder characterised by recurrent seizures caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It can affect people of all ages and backgrounds. ~1 in 100 people is affected by epilepsy (~65 million people) worldwide. Misunderstandings about seizures often lead to fear or exclusion. Despite being a common neurological disorder, epilepsy is often misunderstood. Many people with epilepsy face discrimination in education, employment, and social life.
Epilepsy has been recognised for over 3,000 years, evolving from mystical interpretations to a scientifically understood neurological disorder. Ancient civilisations often interpreted it as a spiritual or supernatural condition, but Hippocrates was the first to describe epilepsy as a brain disorder rather than a divine punishment.
India, China, and the US have the highest absolute number of epilepsy patients worldwide, largely due to their large populations. Ecuador and Nigeria are the countries with the highest number of incidences of epilepsy. Â
The Most Significant Disability in Life Is A Bad Attitude,
Not Epilepsy.
Purple Day addresses a significant “treatment gap.” In many low- and middle-income countries, nearly 75% of those affected do not receive treatment due to cost or lack of awareness. While a definitive cure for epilepsy remains elusive, significant progress is being made in understanding and treating the condition. WHO released a 10-year (2022-2031) intersectoral global plan on neurological disorders, including epilepsy. Â Ayurveda and Siddha offer supportive therapies for epilepsy, focusing on herbs, lifestyle, and holistic care. What is required is integrative care, where traditional therapies complement neurologist-guided treatment.
Stay, Safe, Side.
Organisations often promote the “Stay, Safe, Side” protocol. Stay calm and stay with the person. Keep them safe by moving harmful objects out of reach. If they are unconscious or shaking has stopped, gently turn them onto their side to keep their airway clear.
Epilepsy is not always a lifelong condition. Up to 70% of people with epilepsy can live seizure-free with proper treatment. Diagnosing it early and providing treatment improves the chances of seizure control.
There are two major awareness days for epilepsy each year. “International Epilepsy Day”, in February, focuses on advocacy, education, and global policy. “Purple Day” observance is more focused on grassroots awareness, solidarity, and community action.
Toons: Reema Jaiswal Â
Logs: M Sai Baba
ToonLogs
ToonLogs posted on International Epilepsy Day can be accessed at:
