March 26 marks World Purple Day, a global initiative dedicated to raising epilepsy awareness, dispelling myths and offering support to around 50 million people living with epilepsy.
Countries around the world come together on March 26 to raise awareness of epilepsy, acknowledge the bravery of those diagnosed, and stand in solidarity with all those impacted by this common and complex neurological condition.
These include some 25,000 people in Singapore affected by epilepsy, along with their loved ones, families and caregivers.
Epilepsy, which can affect anyone, is a chronic brain disease characterised by abnormal brain activity causing seizures or unusual behaviour, sensations and sometimes loss of awareness.
People with epilepsy are still subjected to stigmatisation and discrimination as a result of the misconceptions and negative attitudes that surround this often misunderstood condition. Stigmatisation leads to many people with epilepsy being unnecessarily restricted in their choice of employment, or not being able to find any.
People with epilepsy should have the same rights as others in gaining access to education, training and employment opportunities. They should be regarded as having equal value, and have talents that can be developed.
The social implications of epilepsy should not be understated. In fact, social factors are often a greater barrier to the social integration of people with epilepsy than the seizures themselves.
Goh Keng Hwee
Executive Director
Epilepsy Care Group Singapore