The countdown to Purple Day is on! Taking place on March 26, Purple Day aims to encourage people to talk about epilepsy and to remind those who live with seizures they’re not alone.

What is epilepsy?

Epilepsy is a common brain disorder which takes the form of recurring seizures. It can develop at any age, regardless of gender or ethnicity.

More than 250,000 Australians are currently living with epilepsy, and one in 25 people will have epilepsy at some point in their life.

The seizures in epilepsy may be related to a brain injury or a family tendency, but often the cause is entirely unknown.

Having seizures and epilepsy can affect one’s safety, relationships, work, driving, and so much more.

Why do we need Purple Day?

Public perception and treatment of people with epilepsy are often more significant problems than actual seizures.

Misinformation and epilepsy stereotypes are so prevalent that some people misunderstand their condition and others hesitate to get help because they’re concerned epilepsy stigma could harm their prospects with potential employers and affect their relationships with friends, co-workers, and romantic partners.

Epilepsy stereotypes have a long history, and it’s difficult to change perceptions overnight.

Since it started ten years’ ago, Purple Day has become the most extensive global campaign dedicated to increasing epilepsy awareness worldwide and is kicking goals by bringing epilepsy struggles into the light – albeit a purple one.

USB key to epilepsy info this Purple Day

In the spirit of Purple Day, a ‘key’ shaped USB stick has been released by Epilepsy Action Australia.

The My Epilepsy Key provides people living with epilepsy instant access to vital information, resources and self-management tools, to help people better manage their or their child’s epilepsy.

It also allows people to play a part in the active management of their condition and give them back some control over their lives.

EAA aims to provide the key to every person or family affected by epilepsy in Australia. The keys are free. To get yours today merely visit the EAA website.

How can I support Purple Day?

This month, you can show your support by hosting a Purple Day fundraising event at school, with friends or at work, buying merchandise or making a donation to raise epilepsy awareness.

You can also follow EAA on social media, join its campaign on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and entry to popular #purplepose for #purpledayaus competition.

For more information about how you can support Purple Day in your state or territory, contact the EAA team by email.