World Purple Day 2025: Let's create inclusivity where epilepsy is understood, accepted, supported 

By Dr. Durga Prasad Mishra

On March 26, 2025, the world will once again unite in support of World Purple Day, an important occasion dedicated to raising awareness about epilepsy, a neurological disorder that affects millions globally. This initiative, founded in 2008 by Cassidy Megan, a young girl from Canada living with epilepsy, has grown into a global movement aimed at breaking the stigma surrounding the condition and advocating for better understanding, treatment, and support for those affected.

Understanding Epilepsy

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder marked by recurrent seizures, caused by abnormal electrical activity in the brain. It is a condition that affects individuals regardless of their age, gender, or ethnicity. Seizures can vary in intensity—from brief, unnoticed episodes to more severe convulsions—and can be triggered by a variety of factors, including brain injury, infections, genetic conditions, and developmental disorders. Despite the prevalence of epilepsy, it remains one of the most misunderstood and often stigmatized medical conditions worldwide.

The Significance of Purple Day

The color purple was chosen to symbolize World Purple Day due to its association with the Epilepsy Foundation. It represents the resilience, strength, and unity of those living with the disorder. Purple Day offers a platform for individuals to show support for people with epilepsy while encouraging educational initiatives to dispel myths and misconceptions about the condition. The day also serves as a reminder of the importance of funding research, improving access to care, and addressing the emotional and psychological challenges faced by individuals with epilepsy.

How to Get Involved

Participating in Purple Day is simple, yet impactful. Here are several ways people can contribute to raising awareness:

Wear Purple: The most visible way to show support is by wearing purple clothing or accessories. Schools, workplaces, and communities are encouraged to join in, fostering an environment of awareness and solidarity.

Spread Awareness: Use social media platforms to share informative content about epilepsy. Post facts, personal stories, or resources, and encourage others to learn more about the condition. Hashtags like #PurpleDay and #EpilepsyAwareness help amplify the message.

Host Community Events: Many communities across the world organize fundraisers, educational seminars, or awareness walks on Purple Day. These events raise vital funds for research and provide support for people living with epilepsy.

Make a Donation: Charitable contributions to epilepsy organizations, such as the Epilepsy Foundation, are another way to support ongoing research and advocacy efforts. These donations help fund critical services for individuals and families affected by the disorder.
Learn and Educate: One of the most powerful ways to make a difference is through education. Understanding epilepsy, its challenges, and its impact on daily life allows individuals to better support those living with the condition. It also fosters a more inclusive and compassionate society.

The Urgency of Awareness

Epilepsy is estimated to affect over 50 million people worldwide, making it one of the most common neurological disorders. Yet, despite its prevalence, the condition is often misunderstood, and those with epilepsy still face significant stigma. Many suffer from discrimination in the workplace, in schools, and within their own communities. This stigma can isolate individuals and deter them from seeking necessary treatment or support.

World Purple Day serves as a critical reminder that raising awareness can help change these perceptions. By educating the public, we can create more inclusive communities where people with epilepsy are understood, accepted, and supported. Increased awareness can also lead to greater investments in research, improved treatments, and better access to healthcare.

Looking Ahead

As we approach Purple Day 2025, it’s important to reflect on the progress that has been made in epilepsy awareness and the work still left to do. Although advances in treatment and research have improved the quality of life for many individuals with epilepsy, much more remains to be done. By coming together on March 26, wearing purple, sharing knowledge, and supporting advocacy efforts, we can make a significant impact in the fight to eliminate stigma and ensure that people living with epilepsy have access to the care and support they deserve.

Let’s join forces this Purple Day to show our solidarity with those affected by epilepsy. Together, we can raise awareness, foster understanding, and work toward a future where everyone, regardless of their health condition, feels empowered and supported.

(The author is the Dean and Principal of the School of Occupational and Physiotherapy at DRIEMS University)

(DISCLAIMER: This is an opinion piece. The views expressed are the author’s own and have nothing to do with OTV’s charter or views. OTV does not assume any responsibility or liability for the same.)