On the evening of March 26, iconic landmarks across New York State will glow purple in a powerful display of solidarity and awareness. This visual tribute marks International Purple Day, a global campaign dedicated to raising awareness about epilepsy and supporting the hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers living with this neurological condition.

At Crestwood General, we recognize that health awareness extends beyond individual care to community-wide education and support. This article explains what epilepsy is, why awareness matters, and how New York is shining a light on this important cause.

Why Purple Day Matters

Epilepsy is a brain disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. It affects more than 3 million people across the United States, including an estimated 215,000 New Yorkers living with active epilepsy. Each year, approximately 9,000 individuals in New York State receive a new epilepsy diagnosis.

Despite its prevalence, epilepsy remains widely misunderstood. Many people do not know that:
- More than half of epilepsy cases have no known cause
- When causes are identified, they often include head injury, brain infections, tumors, stroke, genetic factors, or other neurological conditions like Alzheimer's disease
- With proper diagnosis and treatment, most people with epilepsy can achieve good seizure control and live full, healthy lives

"Epilepsy is a serious neurological condition impacting more than 3 million people in the U.S., but with greater understanding, early diagnosis and proper treatment, individuals can achieve good seizure control and lead full and healthy lives," said State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald. "International Purple Day is an opportunity to raise awareness about epilepsy and support those impacted by this condition."

For more information on epilepsy and seizure disorders, visit the CDC Epilepsy Page.

Landmarks Lighting Up Purple

On the evening of March 26, sixteen prominent New York State landmarks will be illuminated in purple to honor those living with epilepsy. These symbolic lightings serve as visible reminders of the importance of awareness, education, and support.

Landmarks participating in the tribute include:

One World Trade Center
Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge (lighting begins at 9 PM)
Kosciuszko Bridge
The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
State Education Building
Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
Empire State Plaza
New York State Fairgrounds Main Gate and Expo Center
Niagara Falls
The Franklin D. Roosevelt Mid-Hudson Bridge
Grand Central Terminal Pershing Square Viaduct
Albany International Airport Gateway
MTA Long Island Rail Road East End Gateway at Penn Station
Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
Moynihan Train Hall
Roosevelt Island Lighthouse

These landmarks represent the breadth of New York's communities, from bustling urban centers to scenic natural wonders. Their purple glow sends a unified message: epilepsy affects people everywhere, and support is available for all.

Understanding Epilepsy: Facts Everyone Should Know

Epilepsy is not a single condition but a spectrum of neurological disorders unified by the occurrence of seizures. A seizure is a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain that can cause changes in behavior, movement, feelings, or levels of consciousness.

Types of Seizures

Seizures vary widely in how they present:
- Focal seizures affect only one part of the brain and may cause subtle symptoms like unusual sensations or brief lapses in awareness
- Generalized seizures involve both sides of the brain and can cause convulsions, loss of consciousness, or staring spells
- Some seizures are brief and barely noticeable; others can be more intense and require immediate attention

Common Misconceptions

Epilepsy is not contagious
Most people with epilepsy do not have seizures triggered by flashing lights
Epilepsy is not a mental illness or intellectual disability
With appropriate treatment, many people with epilepsy drive, work, and participate fully in community life

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing epilepsy typically involves:
- A detailed medical history and description of seizure events
- Neurological examination
- Brain imaging such as MRI or CT scans
- Electroencephalogram (EEG) to measure brain electrical activity

Treatment options may include:
- Anti-seizure medications, which control seizures in about two-thirds of people with epilepsy
- Dietary therapies, such as the ketogenic diet, for certain types of epilepsy
- Surgical interventions for cases where medications are not effective
- Neurostimulation devices that help regulate brain activity

Early diagnosis and consistent treatment are key to managing epilepsy effectively. Learn more about diagnosis and treatment from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

How Communities Can Support Epilepsy Awareness

Awareness is the first step toward understanding, and understanding leads to better support. Here are ways individuals, families, and communities can make a difference:

For Friends, Family, and Coworkers

Learn seizure first aid. Knowing how to respond safely during a seizure can prevent injury and reduce fear
Speak up against stigma. Challenge myths and misinformation about epilepsy when you encounter them
Offer practical support. Simple accommodations, like flexible scheduling or a quiet space to rest, can make a significant difference for someone managing epilepsy

For Schools and Workplaces

Provide epilepsy education training for staff and students
Develop clear emergency response plans for seizure situations
Foster inclusive environments where people with epilepsy feel safe and supported

For Healthcare Providers

Stay current on epilepsy guidelines and treatment options
Screen for comorbid conditions like anxiety, depression, or sleep disorders, which are more common in people with epilepsy
Connect patients with community resources and support groups

The CDC's Managing Epilepsy Well Network offers evidence-based tools for improving quality of life among people with epilepsy.

Resources for People Living with Epilepsy

If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with epilepsy, you are not alone. Trusted resources can help you navigate diagnosis, treatment, and daily life:

Many people with epilepsy also benefit from connecting with local support groups, where they can share experiences, practical tips, and encouragement with others who understand their journey.

The Power of Visibility: Why Landmark Lighting Matters

Lighting landmarks purple does more than create a striking visual. It sparks conversation. When people see a familiar building glowing in an unusual color, they may ask why. That question opens the door to learning about epilepsy, challenging stereotypes, and building empathy.

Public awareness campaigns like Purple Day help:
- Reduce stigma by normalizing conversations about neurological health
- Encourage people with undiagnosed symptoms to seek medical evaluation
- Remind policymakers and healthcare systems of the need for accessible, high-quality epilepsy care
- Show individuals living with epilepsy that their community sees them and stands with them

Looking Ahead: Continued Commitment to Epilepsy Care

New York State remains committed to improving outcomes for people with epilepsy through:
- Supporting research into causes, treatments, and potential cures
- Expanding access to specialized epilepsy care across urban and rural communities
- Promoting seizure first aid training in schools, workplaces, and public venues
- Advocating for policies that protect the rights and opportunities of people with neurological conditions

Progress is possible. With continued investment in research, education, and compassionate care, we can ensure that everyone living with epilepsy has the support they need to thrive.

The Bottom Line

Epilepsy is common, manageable, and nothing to be ashamed of. International Purple Day reminds us that awareness saves lives, understanding builds inclusion, and community support makes a real difference.

Key takeaways:
- Epilepsy affects an estimated 215,000 New Yorkers, with about 9,000 new diagnoses each year
- With proper treatment, most people with epilepsy can control seizures and live full lives
- Seizure first aid knowledge and stigma reduction benefit everyone
- Landmark lighting campaigns like Purple Day spark important conversations and show solidarity
- Trusted resources and support networks are available for individuals and families

If you think you or someone you know may be experiencing seizures, consult a healthcare provider for evaluation. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve quality of life.

For more practical health guides, secure medical documentation services, or wellness resources, visit Crestwood General. Because when communities come together to support health and understanding, everyone benefits.