March is Epilepsy Awareness Month in Canada, with efforts focused on raising understanding, dispelling myths, and reducing stigma around the neurological condition.
A key highlight is Purple Day today (March 26), an international grassroots campaign that encourages people to wear purple and host events in support of epilepsy awareness. The movement continues to grow, with participation in more than 85 countries across all continents last year.
Canada remains the only country to officially recognize Purple Day through legislation, following the Purple Day Act passed in 2012.
The initiative was created in 2008 by Cassidy Megan, inspired by her own experiences living with epilepsy. Her goal was to spark conversation and remind those affected by seizures that they are not alone.
Since then, Purple Day has expanded globally with support from organizations including the Epilepsy Association of the Maritimes and the Anita Kaufmann Foundation, bringing together schools, businesses, and communities worldwide.
