November is Epilepsy Awareness Month!

Wear your purple ribbon to show your support!Purple Ribbon

One in 26 people will be diagnosed with epilepsy at some point in their lifetime and an estimated 3.4 million people in the US are living with epilepsy. It is the fourth most common neurological disease after migraine, stroke and Alzheimer’s disease. Despite these staggering numbers, epilepsy remains a disorder that is largely misunderstood by the general public, discriminated against, and underfunded in research initiatives.

Anyone can develop epilepsy at any time. Everyone should know about the prevalence, impact and what to do if someone is having a seizure.

That’s why National Epilepsy Awareness Month (NEAM) is so important! It’s our chance to teach others what a seizure is, and is not. Let’s dare to imagine a society free of stigma, fear, isolation, discrimination and seizures; a community that’s safe, supportive and accommodating of those living with epilepsy. Throughout the month, the EFEPA works to spread awareness across our region through community events, local partnerships, social media campaigns, and lighting the towns and cities of our 18 counties purple to declare November National Epilepsy Awareness Month!