International Epilepsy Day
2 min read
By Camryn Hetrick
International Epilepsy Day is always the second Monday of February. This started back in 2015 and is organized by IBE (International Bureau for Epilepsy) and the ILAE (International League Against Epilepsy). The day provides a platform for people with epilepsy to share their experiences and stories with a global audience.
What is Epilepsy? Epilepsy is a chronic neurology disorder that causes seizures which are sudden bursts of electrical activity in the brain. It’s estimated that 1.2% of people in America have active epilepsy according to mayoclinic.org. Epilepsy can affect everyone in different ways from the symptoms to the way in which people have a seizure. There are medications and treatments that can help with epilepsy. Some people are stuck with epilepsy their whole lives while others symptoms can just go away like how children can grow out of it. A great way to celebrate International Epilepsy Day is by sharing personal stories about epilepsy. Someone can also share seizure first aid posters and wear purple to show support. Lastly donations to fundraisers to support the cause are welcome.
When Interviewing Jonathan Sadler he said, “As someone who went through epilepsy seizures, I think it’s good they get noticed and get a day to themselves. To spread awareness for people who went through or still go through having epilepsy seizures.” When Interviewing Brittany Hetrick a student at Southern New Hampshire University she said,” I think epilepsy is a good thing to bring awareness too.” Be sure to spread awareness on epilepsy.
