This is a big week in the Epilepsy World…at least for those who would like to show support for the changes that could come with greater funds for research. The National Walk for Epilepsy is this Saturday, March 27th in Washington DC, and it follows March 26th which has become International Purple Day.

Why Purple…and how did the tradition of wearing Purple on one day in March to signify Epilepsy Awareness begin? For the answer, you have to ask Cassidy Megan of Nova Scotia. In 2008, the then 9-year-old Cassidy created the idea of Purple Day, motivated by her own struggles with epilepsy. Cassidy’s goal was to get people talking about epilepsy in an effort to dispel myths and inform those with seizures that they are not alone. The Epilepsy Association of Nova Scotia came on board in 2008 to help develop Cassidy’s idea which is now known as the Purple Day for Epilepsy campaign.

Purple Day is an international grassroots effort dedicated to increasing awareness about Epilepsy, worldwide. In 2009, the Anita Kaufmann Foundation also jumped onboard. This has now grown to quite an amazing effort. It’s SO easy to participate…just wear purple this Friday to show your support for more research and possibly a CURE for Epilepsy. You can also host a ‘Purple’ event, such as a dinner, dessert or simple gathering. More than 50 million people worldwide live with Epilepsy, and we all can do our part!

You can read more about Cassidy’s efforts, and plan your Purple Day at http://www.purpleday.org.

Cassidy Megan