If you're out and about tomorrow you might notice that some buildings are lit up with purple. That's because local towns and businesses are raising awareness for epilepsy.
Epilepsy Ireland is encouraging Irish buildings and businesses to turn purple to raise awareness for epilepsy. Over 30 well known Irish buildings such as The Convention Centre and Cork Opera House will show their support for the cause.
Purple day is the brainchild of a young Canadian girl Cassidy Megan. Cassidy came up with the idea in 2008, motivated by her own struggles with epilepsy. She wants people to talk about epilepsy, to raise awareness and inform those with seizures that they are not alone.
At present, over 37,000 people in Ireland have epilepsy with around 1,200 – 2,000 people being diagnosed with epilepsy each year.
The Irish buildings turning purple include, The Convention Centre, Dunbrody Famine Ship, Christchurch Cathedral, Mansion House, Heuston Station, Guinness Store House, Leitrim County Council Office, Opera House Cork, Cobh Cathedral, UCC, King John's Castle, Dublin Castle, Killarney Cathedral, Dublin City Hall and City Hall Sligo, among others.
Speaking about the day Epilepsy Ireland CEO Peter Murphy said:
“Purple is the international colour representing epilepsy awareness and we’re delighted to support Purple Day for the first time. This is a growing worldwide campaign that has helped spread awareness about the condition since it was created by Cassidy Megan nine years ago.
I’d like to thank all the organisations and businesses nationwide who have agreed to turn their buildings purple on March 26th and we encourage everyone to help in any way they can.”
Everyone is also encouraged to wear purple to mark the day.
Join the conversation on Twitter @HerFamilydotie
