One in every hundred South Africans suffer from it, and over 50 million people live with it globally, yet many people remain in the dark about Epilepsy.
Epilepsy is a neurological condition that is characterised by electrical activity in the brain. This activity causes unprovoked seizures. Epilepsy is not a psychological disorder, disease or illness, and is not contagious. In approximately 66% of cases, the underlying causes of the Epilepsy is unknown. In the rest of the cases, the cause can be as a result of a head injury, alcohol or drug abuse, lack of oxygen during birth or degeneration.
Most seizures last from a few seconds to a few minutes, and some people are known to suffer seizures in their sleep.
There are many misperceptions about Epilepsy, which many that suffer from it are hoping to change. On March 26, World Epilepsy Awareness Day (also known as Purple Day), those suffering with Epilepsy in Endumeni will be raising awareness for their cause.
Purple Day started in 2008 by a nine-year-old Scottish girl who wanted to raise more awareness for people with Epilepsy, and to let them know they’re not alone. On Purple Day people are encouraged to wear purple to show support, or host an event and educate others about Epilepsy.
