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Epilepsy Awareness / Purple Day

An awareness observance on March 26 raising global awareness of epilepsy, dispelling myths and stigma, and empowering those with epilepsy to know they are not alone.

Friday

March 2027

Last updated February 26, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEMarch 26

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYHealth Conditions

ORIGIN

Individual Initiative

FOUNDING ENTITY

Cassidy Megan

FIRST OBSERVED

2008

HOW THE HOLIDAY CAME TO BE

Nine-year-old Cassidy Megan from Nova Scotia, Canada, founded Purple Day in 2008, motivated by her own struggles with epilepsy, to help people talk about the condition and assure those with epilepsy they are not alone. The first event was held at her school on March 26, 2008. In 2009, it launched internationally; in 2012, Canada's Purple Day Act gave it official national recognition.

View Official Announcementvia purpledayeveryday.org

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to show your support for Epilepsy Awareness and Purple Day on March 26! This day was created in 2008 by a young Canadian student, Cassidy Megan, who wanted to raise awareness of the neurological disorder. Since then, it has grown into an international event with millions of people around the world taking part in activities to help spread awareness and understanding. From wearing purple clothing to attending epilepsy education events, there are lots of ways you can join in and make a difference – so don't miss out!

TIMELINE

Epilepsy Awareness / Purple Day Timeline

First Medical Recognition

In the mid-19th century, epilepsy is widely recognized and studied as a neurological disorder, paving the way for advancements in understanding and treating it.

Modern Treatment Approaches

In the 1950s, new types of medication for epilepsy are developed and used, such as the drug phenytoin (Dilantin).

Epilepsy Foundations Established

Foundations like the Epilepsy Foundation in the United States are created to advocate for people with epilepsy and provide resources for treatment and research.

Purple Day Founded

The first Purple Day is celebrated, organized by a young Canadian student named Cassidy Megan who wanted to raise awareness about epilepsy.

Global Recognition

Purple Day officially recognized by the United Nations, helping it to reach a global audience and driving wider awareness of epilepsy.

Scientific Advances

Continued research provides hope for more effective treatments and a potential cure, with significant advancements in understanding genetic and neurophysiological contributors to epilepsy.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Epilepsy Awareness / Purple Day

Wear purple

Show your support for epilepsy awareness by wearing purple on Purple Day. This can be anything from a purple shirt or accessories to painting your nails purple.

Share your story

Use social media to share your personal story about epilepsy or the story of someone you know who has been affected by it. This can help raise awareness and educate others about the condition.

DONATE

Donate to epilepsy organizations

Consider making a donation to an epilepsy organization or charity that supports research, education, and advocacy for those with the condition. Every little bit helps in the fight against epilepsy.

ORGANIZE

Organize a fundraising event

Gather friends and family to organize a fundraising event, such as a walk or a charity auction, to raise money for epilepsy awareness. This can also be a fun way to bring people together for a good cause.

EDUCATE

Educate yourself and others

Take the time to learn more about epilepsy and share your knowledge with others. This can help dispel myths and misconceptions about the condition and promote understanding and acceptance.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why Epilepsy Awareness / Purple Day is Important

Supports Epilepsy Research and Advocacy

By promoting donations to epilepsy organizations, Purple Day plays a vital role in supporting ongoing research for better treatments and a potential cure, as well as advocacy work towards the needs of those with epilepsy.

Promotes Knowledge and Understanding

Purple Day allows us to spread important information about epilepsy, breaking down barriers of fear or misunderstanding and leading to more acceptance and support for those who suffer from this condition.

Inspires Solidarity and Community Spirit

Purple Day helps build community spirit and solidarity. Seeing people don purple clothing, share their stories, or go the extra mile to create a fundraising event fosters a sense of unity and in turn, it helps those affected by epilepsy to feel less alone.