About Epilepsy

Approximately one percent of Canadians have epilepsy. Over 50 million people worldwide experience this condition that is more prevalent than multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy and Parkinson's Disease combined. In spite of the large number of people who have epilepsy, and in spite of the efforts of epilepsy organizations such as ours, epilepsy remains a condition beset by myths and misunderstanding in the general public. The resulting stigma arising from public misconceptions has led to social isolation and a decrease of self esteem among people who fear the repercussions of disclosing the fact that they have epilepsy.

A young girl from Nova Scotia hopes to end all that. Until last year, Cassidy, a ten year old girl, never told anyone about her epilepsy, fearing the reaction of her classmates. Then last year, The Epilepsy Association of Nova Scotia made a presentation at her school. She began to talk about her seizures to interested classmates and decided to become the spokesperson for children with epilepsy. The spirited girl convinced her school to designate March 26 as “Purple Day for Epilepsy,” when everyone would be encouraged to wear purple to support epilepsy. Cassidy wanted children with epilepsy to know that they were not alone. Furthermore, she wanted other children to understand that epilepsy is not something to be afraid of and that children with epilepsy were the same as they were, capable of leading normal, healthy lives.

Cassidy did not stop with her school. She called Canadian Paul Shaffer, musical director of the “Late Show with David Letterman.” He rallied to her cause and wore a purple tie for the March 26th taping of the show. She also contacted members of Parliament, schools and universities and various businesses and organizations across North America, Britian, South Africa and Israel. This year the Canadian Epilepsy Alliance and its member organizations have joined Cassidy’s effort to make Purple Day 2009 a truly global event.

Please read Cassidy’s inspiring letter and join us in getting everyone you know to wear purple on March 26, 2009.

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has. Margaret Mead (courtesy of the Institute for Intercultural Studies, Inc., NY)