Energize Epilepsy Ireland: Join Cork’s Squat Challenge for a Cause!

Squatting for a Cause: Purple Day and the Fight Against Epilepsy in the U.S.

By archyde.com News Team

March 21, 2025

A Global Movement with Local Impact

While Epilepsy Ireland launched its “24-Hour Squat Challenge” to coincide with Purple Day on March 26th, the spirit of raising awareness and funds for epilepsy research and support resonates deeply within the United States. The initiative, which encourages participants to complete at least 24 squats each day from March 24th to 28th, mirroring the 24/7 reality for individuals living with epilepsy, underscores a universal need for understanding and action.

Epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures, affects millions of Americans. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 3.4 million people in the U.S. have epilepsy. The condition can manifest at any age and can result from various factors, including genetic predisposition, brain injury, and stroke.

the U.S.mirrors the need expressed by Cian Dikker, Epilepsy Ireland fundraising and progress manager, who stated about their challenge: “Every squat and every donation will help to continue the work of our community resource officer team across Ireland and ensure that Epilepsy Ireland can continue to invest in vital epilepsy research projects.” Similar organizations in the U.S. rely on such fundraising to drive research and support networks.

Here’s how you can participate here in the U.S.:

• Donate: Organizations like the Epilepsy Foundation and Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy (CURE) accept donations to fund research and programs.
• Participate in Events: The Epilepsy Foundation’s “Walk to End Epilepsy” is a nationwide event.(see search result [1])
• Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to local epilepsy support groups or advocacy organizations.
• Spread Awareness: Share details about epilepsy on social media and in your community to reduce stigma and promote understanding.

Purple Day: A Day for Epilepsy Awareness

Purple Day, observed annually on March 26th, is an international grassroots effort dedicated to increasing awareness about epilepsy worldwide. Founded in 2008 by Cassidy Megan, a young girl with epilepsy, Purple Day aims to dispel myths and reduce the stigma associated with the condition.

In the U.S., Purple Day is frequently enough marked by various activities, including educational events, fundraisers, and awareness campaigns. Schools, workplaces, and community organizations participate to show their support for individuals and families affected by epilepsy.

Take, for example, the story of Sarah Johnson from Chicago, whose son, Michael, was diagnosed with epilepsy at age 7. “Purple Day is more than just a date on the calendar for us,” Johnson says. “It’s a reminder that we’re not alone and that there’s a whole community out there working to make life better for people with epilepsy.” She organizes a Purple Day bake sale every year at her son’s school to raise money for the Epilepsy Foundation.

Beyond Squats: A Holistic Approach to Epilepsy Support

While the “24-Hour Squat Challenge” provides a fun and engaging way to raise funds and awareness, a multifaceted approach is essential to address the complex needs of individuals living with epilepsy. This includes:

• Access to Comprehensive Medical Care: Epilepsy management requires specialized medical care, including accurate diagnosis, appropriate medication, and, in certain specific cases, surgical intervention.
• Support Services for Individuals and Families: epilepsy can impact various aspects of life, including education, employment, and social relationships. Support groups, counseling services, and educational programs can help individuals and families cope with the challenges.
• Research and innovation: Ongoing research is critical to developing new and improved treatments for epilepsy, and also to understanding the underlying causes of the condition.
• Advocacy and Policy Change: Advocating for policies that promote access to care, protect the rights of individuals with epilepsy, and increase funding for research is essential to improving the lives of those affected.

Recent Developments in Epilepsy research

Significant progress is being made in epilepsy research, offering hope for improved treatments and potential cures. Some recent developments include:

• Gene therapy: researchers are exploring gene therapy as a potential treatment for certain genetic forms of epilepsy.
• Neuromodulation: Techniques such as vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) and responsive neurostimulation (RNS) are showing promise in reducing seizure frequency in individuals with drug-resistant epilepsy.
• Biomarker Revelation: Efforts are underway to identify biomarkers that can predict seizure risk and guide treatment decisions.

Practical Applications and Daily living with Epilepsy

Managing epilepsy effectively involves lifestyle adjustments and proactive measures. Individuals with epilepsy and their families can benefit from the following practical applications:

• Seizure Action Plans: Develop a detailed seizure action plan with your doctor and share it with family members, caregivers, and school or workplace personnel.
• Medication Adherence: Take prescribed medications exactly as directed and maintain a consistent schedule.
• Lifestyle Modifications: Identify and avoid seizure triggers, such as sleep deprivation, stress, and alcohol consumption.
• Safety Precautions: Take precautions to prevent injuries during seizures, such as wearing a helmet during activities that carry a risk of head trauma.
• Assistive Technology: Explore assistive technology options, such as seizure monitors and alert devices, to enhance safety and independence.

Addressing Counterarguments and Misconceptions

Despite increased awareness efforts, misconceptions about epilepsy persist. One common misconception is that epilepsy is contagious. It is crucial to emphasize that epilepsy is a neurological disorder, not an infectious disease.

Another misconception is that individuals with epilepsy cannot lead normal lives.With appropriate medical care, support, and lifestyle adjustments, most people with epilepsy can participate fully in school, work, and social activities.

Some may argue that focusing on awareness campaigns like Purple Day is insufficient to address the complex needs of individuals with epilepsy. While awareness is essential, it is equally vital to advocate for policies that promote access to care, fund research, and protect the rights of people with epilepsy.

Get Involved: Join the Fight Against Epilepsy

Whether through participating in events like the Walk to End Epilepsy, donating to research organizations, or simply spreading awareness within your community, everyone can play a role in improving the lives of individuals and families affected by epilepsy.

As Mr. Dikker emphasized, “We encourage everyone, whether you have a personal connection to epilepsy or simply want to support a great cause, to take part. The challenge is fun, inclusive, and a great way to get moving while making a difference.” While the “24-Hour squat Challenge” may have originated in Ireland, the spirit of making a difference transcends borders. Let’s work together to create a more informed, supportive, and inclusive society for people with epilepsy.

© 2025 archyde.com. All rights reserved.

What fundraising efforts or challenges can be implemented in the U.S. to raise both awareness and funds for epilepsy research, similar to Ireland’s “24-Hour Squat Challenge”?

Interview: Dr. Evelyn Reed on Purple Day and Epilepsy Awareness

Archyde News: Welcome, Dr. Reed. Thank you for joining us today to discuss Purple Day and the ongoing fight against epilepsy.Can you tell us a bit about your role and involvement in the epilepsy community?

Dr.evelyn Reed: Thank you for having me. I’m Dr.Evelyn Reed, a neurologist specializing in epilepsy at the National Epilepsy Center. I’ve been working with patients and families affected by epilepsy for over 15 years, and I am passionate about raising awareness and improving care.

Archyde News: Purple Day is approaching on March 26th. What’s the significance of this day, and how can peopel in the U.S. get involved?

Dr. Evelyn Reed: Purple Day is an international effort to raise awareness about epilepsy, dispel misconceptions, and reduce the stigma surrounding the condition. In the U.S., people can participate in various ways, such as donating to organizations like the Epilepsy Foundation, volunteering, spreading awareness through social media, and participating in events like the “Walk to end Epilepsy”, as highlighted in the recent search result [1]. The key is to show support, educate others, and foster understanding.

Archyde News: The article mentions the “24-Hour Squat Challenge” that takes place in ireland.Do you see similar initiatives playing a role in the U.S. to raise both awareness and funds?

Dr.evelyn Reed: Absolutely. Any creative fundraising or awareness campaigns directly support epilepsy research and patient programs.This 24-hour challenge, or other events, amplify the message and engage individuals in fun and memorable ways.Fundraising allows organizations to invest in critical areas, mirroring the needs and goals of the Epilepsy Foundation and other U.S.-based counterparts.

Archyde News: Beyond awareness, what are some of the most promising developments in epilepsy research and treatment right now?

Dr. Evelyn Reed: We’re seeing exciting advances in several areas. Gene therapy is showing potential for certain genetic forms of epilepsy. Neuromodulation techniques, such as vagus nerve stimulation, are also providing relief for some patients. Moreover, research into biomarkers to predict seizure risk is ongoing. The constant advancement is really encouraging. This also includes the need for more patient-specific seizure action plans to accommodate the wide range of epilepsies.

archyde News: A critical point in tackling this illness is holistic approaches. You mentioned this within the various sections of the provided article. How can we expand support beyond the medical field?

Dr. Evelyn Reed: It is critical to understand the disease on all levels. Support services for individuals and families are crucial. This includes access to counseling, support groups, and educational programs. Furthermore, advocating for policies that promote access to care is essential. epilepsy affects far more than just the individual with the disease. Thus complete care considers everyone. This encompasses daily living, safety, and assistive technologies, as also discussed.

Archyde News: Despite increasing awareness such as Purple Day, misconceptions about epilepsy still exist. What are the key misconceptions you’d like to address?

Dr. evelyn Reed: One major misconception is that epilepsy is contagious, which is incorrect. Another is that individuals with epilepsy cannot live normal lives; with proper medical care, support, and lifestyle adjustments, most people can. I strive to dispel such misinformation whenever possible.

Archyde News: what’s the one thing you’d like our readers to take away from this discussion? And how can people who are not affected by epilepsy directly become part of the wider support community?

Dr. Evelyn Reed: The most critically important takeaway is that epilepsy is treatable, and people with epilepsy deserve our full support and understanding.Irrespective of a personal connection, individuals can support through donating to research organizations, spreading awareness, and becoming educated on the topic. There’s always something to do,and your support makes a difference. What would it take to get more people in the US engaged in similar challenges in aid of epilepsy, such as the Squat Challenge?

Archyde News: Dr. Reed, thank you for your time and insights. This has been incredibly informative.

Dr. Evelyn Reed: My pleasure.Thank you for helping to spread awareness.