FOODIES who love Edinburgh’s St Mary’s Market can sample information about epilepsy on Saturday 29 March, thanks to generous local traders.
They have offered Epilepsy Scotland a free stand to promote international Purple Day after fellow businesswoman, Rachel Hanretty, experienced a hard time with seizures.
St Mary’s Market organiser, Vicky MacDonald, explained: “We are a close-knit trading community and we wanted to do something for Rachel. She’s not had the best of times lately with her epilepsy. So we asked how we could help.
“She suggested we could mark Purple Day by providing Epilepsy Scotland with a table where they could give away purple ribbons and chat with people who want to learn more about this common condition. This is our way of showing support for Rachel and the 54,000 people who live in Scotland with epilepsy. It’s an important cause to us now.”
Rachel Hanretty, who sells French style macarons at her Mademosielle Macaron stand, said: “Starting a business while dealing with seizures and side effects from medication is hard work. The support I’ve had from other small businesses in the market makes it feel less like a lonely journey.”
Epilepsy Scotland chief executive, Lesslie Young, remarked: “This is a fabulous opportunity for us to share information and raise awareness of our services with a new audience.
“In Edinburgh city alone, nearly 5,000 people have epilepsy and our local office at Orchard Brae House is there to help.
“Many people manage to control their seizures with medication but it can be more difficult for others like Rachel. We applaud St Mary’s Market for their supportive action to help a fellow trader and for making a contribution towards our vital work. Market regulars might want to try one of Rachel’s purple-coloured French macaroons made especially for the day!”
ENDS
Notes to editor:
1. Photo opportunity: Rachel Hanretty and some Epilepsy Scotland volunteers will be available for photographs between 11am-3pm, at St Mary’s Market on the corner of Leith Street and York Place in Edinburgh. The market is open from 11am to 5pm.
2. Epilepsy Scotland works with people living with epilepsy to ensure that their voice is heard. We campaign for improved healthcare, better information provision and an end to stigma. This common serious neurological condition affects one in 97 people. We represent 54,000 Scots with epilepsy, their families and carers. Our freephone Helpline (0808 800 2200) offers support and information, text 07786 209501, email: enquiries@epilepsyscotland.org.uk, find us on facebook, twitter @epilepsy_scot twitter or visit: www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk
3. Purple Day started in 2008 and raises awareness of epilepsy through fun activities. In 2014, Epilepsy Scotland (inaugurated November 1954) celebrates its Diamond Jubilee. Details of St Mary’s Market at http://www.edinburghmarkets.co.uk/ Contact details for Vicky MacDonald and Rachel Hanretty call: Allana Parker, public affairs officer 07884 012 147 or 0141 427 4911.
PRESS RELEASE issued by Epilepsy Scotland. You too can post your story ideas for journalists (aka press or media releases), on allmediascotland.com. Email info@allmediascotland.com for more information.
Contact: Allana Parker
Phone: 07884012147
Email: aparker@epilepsyscotland.org.uk
Website: http://www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk
