November is so many things. It is the season of Thanksgiving, Election season, and those glorious days off from school. But for me, November is so much more. Break out your purple, everyone, because November is Epilepsy Awareness Month!
I'm guilty to admit that before I was diagnosed with the disorder in 2014, I really had no idea what Epilepsy was, or how to help someone who is having a seizure. Most people don't, and that's okay because Epilepsy isn't a common disorder. It is estimated that only 1% of Americans currently have Epilepsy, and only 4%, which is 1 out of 26 people will develop Epilepsy at some point in their lifetime. So with it being November, I wanted to share with you things you can do to help spread awareness, whether you know someone who is an Epileptic or not.
#1 Know How to Help An Epileptic
First Aid is extremely important, not just helping someone you see having a seizure. But in this circumstance, here is what you can do. If someone begins to have a seizure, you must lay them gently onto the ground, if they are not already, and lay them on their side. Make sure that something rests below their head, and that nothing is in their mouths, which is an extreme choking hazard. Also keep track of how long the seizure lasts. If it is longer than three minutes, seek medical attention immediately. Seizures are scary, but if you know how to help someone having one, it helps the Epileptic, and the EMT's as they come later on.
#2 Find A Support Group/Volunteer Organization
I cannot say enough about the Matty Fund for Epilepsy and everything they've done for me. Shortly after I was diagnosed, my mom felt it would be beneficial if I found somewhere that I could fit in, to help me find answers to my new and scary disorder. Together, we found the Matty Fund, a place that not only provided me with answers but gave me a family of other kids and young adults with Epilepsy and supportive parents. The volunteer organization has given me chances to volunteer at the summer camp, and attend road races, dances, and informational meetings. If you want to make a difference, volunteer with us or run the road race. Whatever you do, you are helping Epilepsy patients and their families cope with the disorder and make better lives for them, while funding education and awareness.
#3 Wear Purple!
For those of you who don't know, the Epilepsy awareness color is purple, which conveniently is my favorite color. In November, celebrate those around you who you may or may not know who have Epilepsy just by wearing a purple shirt, purple bracelet, purple ribbon, or even purple makeup. My friend, and fellow Epilepsy survivor wears purple eyeliner every day to remind herself of how far she has come with the disorder. Purple, for us, isn't just a color. It tells our story, about everything we had to overcome to be where we are, and seizure free.
November for me is a month of awareness and celebration, and reminds me how lucky I am to be seizure free, able to attend school, and have my license. It is also a time for me to reflect on all of the amazing people I have met along the way, who have shaped me into the stronger version of myself. For this, I am forever grateful.
To those who have been affected by Epilepsy, this month is for you, and know that you are not alone.
