Support National Epilepsy Awareness Day on March 26 by Wearing Purple

Tuesday March 26 is National Epilepsy Awareness Day, also known as ‘Purple Day’. Epilepsy is the fourth most common neurological disorder. Epilepsy is the general term used for the over 40 types of seizure disorders or syndromes. Seizures affect 1 in 10 individuals during their lifetime. An estimated 2,000 individuals are affected by seizures in the Tri-Valley. It can be overwhelming to receive a diagnosis of a seizure disorder / epilepsy for the individual afflicted as well as their loved ones. Often medications taken for seizure disorders or the seizures themselves can affect cognition for students. Diagnosis of epilepsy is more common in children and seniors: however can begin at any age.

Pleasanton-based Eric’s Corner offers resources, knowledge, support and education to help ease the isolation and lack of awareness surrounding epilepsy. Eric’s Corner volunteer educational events tend to need a minimum of one hour and there is no charge to the participants as outreach and education are an essential part of the Eric’s Corner mission. Last year, Eric’s Corner hosted an Educational Awareness Event for the Rotary Club of Dublin. Eric’s Corner volunteers can also provide assistance for families to communicate the needs of their child with seizures to the schools, by providing a well drafted individual Seizure Action Plan, and help to shed some light on the process for requesting appropriate accommodations or modifications within the public school system. Eric’s Corner Support Group and Social Outings offer community while living with an often isolating condition.

On March 26 help the volunteers of Eric’s Corner and honor those in our community living with seizures by wearing purple. Please email photos of your participation to kim@ericscorner.org or eric@ericscorner.org.

If you or someone you know would like to host an Epilepsy Awareness Event (EAE), Eric’s Corner would be glad to coordinate an educational experience. Learn more about epilepsy / seizure disorders and how to respond to a seizure.  Community outreach is essential to the growth of epilepsy awareness. The Eric’s Corner Support Group meets the third Thursday of each month from 6:30 – 8 p.m. at 5725 W. Las Positas Blvd. suite 270, Pleasanton. Meetings are open to the public, including individuals of all ages and a variety of seizure types, as well as family friends and care givers.  New comers are always welcome.