Today, March 26, the world observes “Purple Day.” This is an international initiative aimed at raising public awareness about epilepsy, debunking myths, and supporting those living with this diagnosis.
The history of this day began in 2008, when nine-year-old Canadian Cassidy Megan, inspired by her own experience, decided to reach out to the world. She wanted everyone to know that people with epilepsy are not alone and that they need community support rather than stigma.
Purple (Lavender) is considered the international symbol for epilepsy. It symbolically associates with the isolation that individuals with this diagnosis often feel due to public misconceptions.
In various countries around the world, people wear purple clothing and accessories, and share educational information on social media. In many cities, famous buildings and monuments are even illuminated in purple.
Experts remind us that epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders; however, the prejudices surrounding it often cause more harm to people than the condition itself.
