Last Updated:March 26, 2025, 07:00 IST

Purple Day, on March 26, raises epilepsy awareness. Cassidy Megan founded it in 2008 to promote understanding and support for those with the disorder.

Purple Day For Epilepsy 2025: Purple Day is observed to spread awareness of epilepsy, a common neurological condition. Every year on March 26, people commemorate the day. Cassidy Megan started the day in 2008 after she battled epilepsy and the stigma associated with it in society.

Purple Day aims to make people understand the medical condition of epilepsy. The day also focuses on supporting those who have the condition and their communities in having an open conversation about it.

What Is Epilepsy?

A neurological disorder called epilepsy affects the central nervous system and causes frequent seizures. The most common sign of epilepsy is seizures, which can include muscle spasms, convulsions, staring fits, and loss of consciousness.

Although medicine is the main treatment for epilepsy, lifestyle modifications can also help manage the illness. Some persons with epilepsy may have confusion, disorientation, or memory loss following a seizure.

Key Facts About Epilepsy

1. Epilepsy affects about 50 million individuals globally.
2. People with epilepsy have a threefold increased chance of dying young compared to the general population.
3. Epilepsy is thought to affect 1 in 100 people.
4. Epilepsy affects over 2.2 million people in the United States, as per reports.
5. There is no way to spread epilepsy. Moreover, it is not a psychological condition.

Purple Day For Epilepsy: History

Purple Day was conceived in 2008 by Cassidy Megan, who suffers from epilepsy herself. In addition to raising awareness about epilepsy, the event aims to reassure individuals who experience seizures that they are not alone.

Purple Day was introduced globally in 2009 by Cassidy Megan in collaboration with the Anita Kaufmann Foundation and the Epilepsy Association of the Maritimes (EAM). As the initiative’s main supporters, they work with different groups and people around the world to increase awareness of epilepsy.

Due to Cassidy Megan, EAM, and The Anita Kaufmann Foundation’s joint efforts, several organisations, schools, corporations, politicians, and celebrities from all around the world have actively participated.

Purple Day For Epilepsy: Significance

Purple Day seeks to empower people with epilepsy and raise awareness of the condition. In many underdeveloped nations, societal shame and fear continue to exist despite its admirable goal.

For people with epilepsy to live fearlessly and enjoy their independence, these obstacles must be removed. By taking an inclusive stance, Purple Day aims to improve the lives of those who have epilepsy and advance a society that is more sympathetic and understanding.

Many people participate in campaigns and events to raise awareness about epilepsy on this day. Around the world, politicians, corporations, organisations, schools, and celebrities have teamed up to promote awareness and support for those with epilepsy.

Purple Day For Epilepsy: Quotes

1. There’s nothing more debilitating about a disability than the way people treat you over it. ― Solange Nicole
2. Know me for my abilities, not my disability. — Robert M. Hensel
3. My condition, epilepsy, is a brain disorder, not a disease. There’s a difference. You catch diseases. No one can “catch” epilepsy. ― Marjorie Jackson
4. There’s no reason why a person with epilepsy can’t play sports or pursue their dreams. I’ve learned to live with it, the fear of the unknown, because I want to live life, and for me, that means playing ice hockey. — Chanda Gunn
5. We can fight seizures if we fight for our dreams every day and appreciate the little things we accomplish. – Rachel Scott
6. Optimism is the faith that leads to achievement. Nothing can be done without hope and confidence. – Helen Keller.