Katie

Why is Purple the Colour for Epilepsy?

Friday 21st Feb

Purple isn’t just a colour - it’s a symbol of strength, awareness, and hope for the epilepsy community.

Purple is associated with epilepsy worldwide. This is because lavender is known as the international flower of epilepsy. Historically, lavender is linked to calm and healing, and its soothing scent is often used to reduce stress, promote relaxation, and even improve sleep.

But did you know lavender is also linked to love? In ancient times, it was used in love potions, perfumes, and even tucked into letters to symbolise devotion 

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Lennox Wave: 2024 May Issue. Katie Gatland

Saturday 1st Feb Katie was only a child when she was confronted with a chronic brain disorder in which groups of nerve cells, or neurons in the brain, sometimes send the wrong signals. Being born with epilepsy meant a constant struggle to deal with daily seizures and adapt to various medications. During adulthood, she finally found a drug combination that would stabilise her condition and is now focused on pursuing her love for animals. ‘Epilepsy has been a significant part of my life and a massive challenge for me and my family since birth. Managing seizures involved constant adjustments to medication, including a trial drug, during my first year of high school. It wasn't until adulthood when my grandmother luckily became aware of a new drug combination I finally had stability to my seizures. ‘School life wasn't always easy. Periods with frequent seizures, sometimes several a day, meant needing to go home and sleep due to the confusion and exhaustion that followed. Additionally, not being able to drive due to epilepsy requires reliance on public transport, which can be tricky in the Northern Rivers. Thankfully, I have an amazing support system in my family, who are always there to help with errands, appointments or just a fun outing. Travelling also presents unique challenges for someone with epilepsy – packing enough medication (not always readily available), navigating customs and maintaining the crucial daily schedule despite time zone differences. Medication side effects add another layer of complexity to the mix,’ Katie explains. Born in Auckland in 1986, Katie moved to Lennox last year after falling in love with the town following numerous trips to visit her brother James. ‘Every time I visited James and his wife Helene in Lennox Head, I fell in love with it slightly more. The slower pace of life, welcoming community and warmer weather gradually drew me in. The decision to move here permanently was years in the making, but ultimately, it was the right one. This place truly feels like home,’ she says Finding employment with epilepsy has proved challenging for Katie, and she has recently enrolled in Wollongbar TAFE to study for a Certificate II in Animal Studies. ‘Having a fantastic teacher and support person makes a world of difference. These programs for people with disabilities weren't available in New Zealand. I'm incredibly grateful to TAFE for allowing me to pursue my passion for animals. ‘I have always had a deep love for animals. One of my greatest joys was our golden retriever, Sandy. More than a dog, she was a family member. Now, I get to channel that passion through volunteering at Australia Seabird & Turtle Rescue in Ballina and the Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary in Knockrow. At Australia Seabird & Turtle Rescue, feeding the turtles and cleaning their tanks brings immense satisfaction. Witnessing their recovery and eventual release back into the wild is incredibly rewarding. Over at the Wildlife Sanctuary, I prepare food bags for young visitors. Seeing the excitement on their faces is a heart warming reminder that the future generation cares deeply about animal welfare,’ she says. Even though Katie's life has been challenging, she contemplates, ‘My journey has been a learning experience, and I hope to share what I've learned with others. I always felt I was alone, but I’ve learnt not to be afraid of who you are as an epileptic. There’s many of us out there.’ Share

Purple Day is coming, for epilepsy awareness By David Lowe March 19, 2024

Saturday 1st Feb Katie Gatland: Purple Day is coming, for epilepsy awareness.  https://www.echo.net.au/2024/03/purple-day-is-coming-for-epilepsy-awareness/ Share

Purple Day 2023 Albany Mall NZ

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2015 Purple Day Toy

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