Health and medicine All Scotland March 22 2010 16:51

Purple Day to Raise Awareness of Epilepsy

Friday 26 March is Purple Day so raise awareness of epilepsy and be in fashion! National charity Epilepsy Scotland is encouraging people across the country to take part on this designated day and do something with a purple theme.

Chief Executive Lesslie Young said: “Epilepsy is often a hidden condition that the public don’t know a lot about.  We would like as many people as possible to join in Purple Day so that more of us are thinking and talking about epilepsy.  I’ll be wearing my purple jacket on Friday as I walk part of the 73 miles of the Great Glen Way, from Fort William to Inverness to raise money for Epilepsy Scotland.”

Whether you’re at school, at work, or retired, you can follow Purple Day in your own way.  Epilepsy Scotland’s website shows how you can raise money as well as awareness for a good cause at www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk

Ends

Notes to editor

1. 1.      Epilepsy Scotland works with people affected by 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 130 people.  We represent nearly 40,000 Scots with epilepsy, their families and carers. 

1. Our freephone Helpline (0808 800 2200) offers advice, support and information.  People can email (enquiries@epilepsyscotland.org.uk), text 07786 209501, or download information from our website: www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk

1. Lavender is the international colour for epilepsy.  Purple Day was founded in Canada by nine years old Cassidy Megan in 2008 who has epilepsy.

1. For more details please contact: Allana Parker, Communications Manager on: 0141 419 1701 or 07884 012 147.