Purple Day is a grassroots movement to get people talking about epilepsy. It was founded in 2008 by Cassidy Megan, who wanted to bust myths about seizures and show people living with epilepsy that they are not alone.

There are at least 142,000 people living with active epilepsy in Australia, though the real figure is believed to be even higher than this. One in 10 Australians will experience at least one seizure in their lifetime, but knowledge of the condition is limited and its impact on people is poorly understood.

Epilepsy organisations across Australia are looking to bring a national spotlight to epilepsy in 2021 and are joining forces to make this happen.

Epilepsy Australia is the national coalition of Australian epilepsy organisations working together to keep our communities informed on the latest medical breakthroughs, social research, publications, news and policy about epilepsy. Our vision is for inclusive communities where people with epilepsy can live and participate free of stigma and discrimination.

Our member organisations include the Epilepsy Foundation, Epilepsy WA, Epilepsy ACT, Epilepsy Tasmania, Epilepsy Queensland and The Epilepsy Centre.

Check out your local state or territory’s plans for March by clicking on the map above. Some states are doing fundraising walks and other activities, both in person and online. Each state also has merchandise available for sale. You can find out more here.

You can also donate directly to your local organisation here. For more ways to get involved, head to our Activities page—and don’t forget to hashtag #MakeMarchPurple and #PurpleDay2021!