Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario is hoping to educate residents and make further strides in eliminating a stigma associated with the neurological disorder.
March is Epilepsy Awareness Month.
Epilepsy Educator Sandra Pidduck said one in 100 people have epilepsy but it's not often disclosed because of misconceptions.
"There was a lot of societal issues with it previously and so they're a little bit fearful but we want everyone to know there are a number of people who have epilepsy in our community," she said. "It's a really good time right now to bring awareness to epilepsy and seizure first aid."
As efforts to raise awareness continue, Pidduck said there has been progress over the years when it comes to understanding, especially in schools.
"We were going into the schools and teaching teachers and children [from JK to Grade 12] and I've really seen a lot of children who are much more accepting of someone having a seizure," Pidduck said. "Sometimes in the workplaces, we're seeing a little bit of that but by far, the schools are really supportive and really inclusive."
There are many ways to show support throughout the month of March. Pidduck said as always there is the purple door campaign which includes a social media aspect.
Workplaces and schools in Sarnia-Lambton are encouraged to decorate their dedicated spaces purple and/ or host a free seizure first aid session and share it to social media using #PurpleDoor2022. Participants will be entered into a draw to win a purple prize basket.
Sarnia's Junior B hockey team will also recognize Epilepsy Awareness Month during an upcoming game.
"On March 17, the Sarnia Legionnaires are going to be hosting a purple game during their game against the Chatham Maroons," said Pidduck. "We're going to dress up in purple and there will be a ceremonial puck drop with one of our epilepsy warriors, so that'll be a really fun and exciting night."
The purple game will be broadcast on CHOK from the Pat Stapleton Arena.
Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario will host a virtual party on March 14. Pidduck said Sarnia's City Hall will also be illuminated purple on March 16 and 17.
Purple Day will be recognized on March 26 as part of a global effort to raise awareness about epilepsy.
