What Purple Day means to our charity partners

March 26th is globally recognized as Purple Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness of epilepsy.

Cassidy Megan created Purple Day in 2008, due to her epilepsy challenges. She aims to debunk misconceptions about epilepsy, increase awareness of the condition, and ensure that those living with epilepsy know they are supported. In 2008, The Epilepsy Association of the Maritimes joined Cassidy in creating Purple Day.

For Empatica, this day is all about educating those around us, celebrating inclusivity, and ensuring those living with epilepsy and their caregivers get the support they need. We’re proud to partner with organizations and charities in the USA to ensure EpiMonitor, our FDA-cleared epilepsy monitoring solution, is available to those who need it most via discounts or donations. If you think you may be eligible, please reach out to one of our partners directly. The full list can be accessed via our support article.

This year, we asked our partners what Purple Day means to them. Here are the messages of support they shared.

The Danny Did Foundation

The Danny Did Foundation was set up by Mike and Mariann Stanton in 2010 after the tragic death of their son Danny. The Foundation aims to raise greater awareness, educate, and advance public disclosure between medical professionals and families impacted by Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP).

It is important to remember that while Purple Day is a day for those living with epilepsy, epilepsy also has a significant impact on caregivers and loved ones.

“Purple Day means a great deal to me because people living with epilepsy deserve a day dedicated to their cause and reminding the world of the seriousness of this condition. Epilepsy is often misunderstood, and Purple Day is an opportunity to help others understand its impact on the entire family. On March 26th, we come together to make sure that people living with epilepsy have access to the safety resources, treatment, support, and care they need. It’s a reminder that everyone deserves to enjoy life, and we can all play a part in making that a reality. By participating in Purple Day, we send a clear message that you do not have to face epilepsy alone.”

Mary Duffy, Executive Director

Josh Provides

Josh Provides was established to honor Josh, who sadly passed away in 2008, and to provide support for those living with seizures through community education and awareness, local support groups, and financial support.

For Josh Provides, Purple Day is about ensuring those living with epilepsy and their families are supported. They were pleased to assist ​​Dana, the mother and caregiver of a 22-year-old named Hayden, with a donated EpiMonitor.

"I just received your email and it made my day! I already feel more relaxed! Thank you for helping Hayden become more independent!"

Dana, EpiMonitor caregiver

The Chelsea Hutchison Foundation

The Chelsea Hutchison Foundation was established by Doug and Julie Hutchison, after the loss of their daughter Chelsea to SUDEP. They made it their mission to support and educate individuals, families, and communities impacted by epilepsy, to raise awareness of SUDEP, and to provide tangible ways to help prevent it.

For Julie and The Chelsea Hutchison Foundation, ensuring that those living with epilepsy have access to necessary resources is of the utmost importance.

“Purple Day is about promoting epilepsy awareness and connecting individuals with essential resources to improve their quality of life.”

Julie Hutchison, President, Co-Founder, and Chelsea's Mother

Eric & Co Seize Epilepsy

Eric & Co Seize Epilepsy was named after a young boy who lives with epilepsy. The non-profit was set up by his family in 2023 after they realized that many epilepsy resources are not always affordable or easily accessible.

For many, epilepsy is a journey. A journey to find the right treatment plan, routine, support available, and much more. And this is also a journey you do not have to face alone.

“Purple Day promotes the strong and supportive community that's available to those affected by epilepsy!”

Val Ash, Executive Director, and Eric’s Mother

Gladiator X Project

Xavier is the inspiration behind Gladiator X Project. He was born with CHD2 Gene Mutation resulting in Autism Spectrum Disorder and Intractable Epilepsy. Despite the numerous medications taken and surgeries undergone, Xavier is a very determined 13-year-old boy.

Gladiator X Project was created by his family and is an established fund within the NeuroDevelopmental Science Center at Akron Children’s Hospital, which aims to provide comfort and support to patients undergoing epilepsy treatment at the hospital.

“Purple Day is a day to not only acknowledge those living with epilepsy but also their team of caregivers who travel the journey with them. It is a day to raise awareness about this chronic neurological disorder that is often overlooked.”

Amanda Marconi, Co-Founder and President

Wear purple with pride

Wondering how you can get involved in Purple Day 2025? Visit the official Purple Day website to see how you can help raise awareness in your local community, or nationally via political representatives.

On March 26th, remember to wear purple with pride!

If you’d like to find out if you’re eligible for a donated or discounted EpiMonitor, read our support article to discover all of the charities we partner with in the USA to make this possible for those who need it most.