Purple Day may be marked on the calendar for March 26, but its impact reaches far beyond a single day.
Throughout March, EFMN invited Minnesotans to take action, and raise epilepsy awareness across our state. From community stories and pops of purple to public landmarks glowing after dark, we set out to build a full month of momentum, celebrating Purple Day by going purple all month long.
Below are a few highlights from our month of Purple Pride.
Building Awareness and Understanding
Purple Day® began in 2008 when nine‑year‑old Cassidy Megan of Nova Scotia encouraged people around the world to wear purple and talk about epilepsy. Her goal was to reduce stigma and help people feel less alone. What began as her call for understanding grew into a global movement that continues to unite millions each year.
Within the epilepsy community, purple is more than a color. It’s a symbol of hope, visibility, and collective strength. When Purple Day began, Cassidy Megan chose purple as a simple, recognizable way for people to show support and that meaning continues today.
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions, affecting more than 3.4 million Americans, including an estimated 55,000 Minnesotans. About 1 in 10 people will experience a seizure in their lifetime, and 1 in 26 will develop epilepsy.
Throughout the month, we focused on expanding understanding about epilepsy and highlighting the real, lived experiences.
Centering Stories from Our Community
All month long, EFMN uplifted voices from across Minnesota’s epilepsy community, including individuals living with epilepsy, caregivers, advocates, educators, and medical professionals. Community spotlights offered a window into the many ways epilepsy shows up in daily life and reminded us that no two journeys look the same.
- COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Aura Wharton-Beck
In this community spotlight, educator and caregiver Aura Wharton‑Beck reflects on her journey and why she advocates for epilepsy awareness, support, and education through EFMN. - COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Joanna & Avant
In this spotlight, caregiver, advocate, and creator of Epilepsy in Sign, Joanna shares her and Avant’s journey, using ASL and technology to build epilepsy awareness and understanding. - COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT: Dr. Sima Patel
In this spotlight, Neurologist and Epilepsy Specialist, Dr. Sima Patel shares her journey in epilepsy care, her passion for expanding access, and how her work with EFMN supports patients and families across Minnesota.
Community Voices in Action
Purple Month also created space for advocacy and community voice.
Community members were invited to share input through EFMN’s community survey, to help inform future support for Minnesotans impacted by epilepsy. Others explored ways to step into advocacy by joining EFMN’s 2026 Day at the Capitol.
Giving to Make a Difference
Leading up to Purple Day, we shared different ways to take action through giving.
Make a Monthly Gift
Monthly gifts at any amount provide steady support that strengthens EFMN’s financial health so we can continue to be a go‑to resource for Minnesotans impacted by epilepsy.
Become a sustaining donor today to help us unlock $13,000 in matching funds
EFMN’s Professional Advisory Board has agreed to match 100% of every new sustaining gift throughout the entire year – up to $8,000. For example, if you sign up today to contribute $10/month as a sustaining donor in 2026, each monthly donation will be matched all year – doubling your impact!
In addition, if we reach our goal of adding 20 new sustaining donors by April 30, we will unlock an additional $5,000 match.
Donate Used Clothing and Household Items
EFMN’s Donated Goods Program, which accepts gently used clothing and small household items to help fund epilepsy support services across Minnesota.
Your donated items do more than declutter — they directly support the mission. In fact, donations of used clothing and household goods provide a significant portion of the funding that makes EFMN’s programs possible.
Lead a local effort that supports Minnesotans with epilepsy and gives back to your community
Make a difference in your neighborhood or organization by partnering with EFMN to host a clothing fundraiser. We’ll help you organize a drive, and your group will earn funds for every cubic foot of clothing, shoes, or linens collected.
Showing Off Our Purple Pride!
All of that energy came together on Purple Day. On March 26, Minnesotans were invited to fill everyday spaces with purple — at work, at school, and throughout their communities. Click the video below to see how EFMN Executive Director Jenna Carter celebrated Purple Day.
Purple Day visibility also extended across the state as landmarks, bridges, and community buildings lit up in purple, transforming public spaces into shared symbols of support. Locations that participated included Capella Tower in Minneapolis, France Avenue in Edina, Sperry Tower in Eagan, and Moorhead City Hall.
Throughout the day, purple showed up across the state in so many ways to remind people living with epilepsy that they are supported, seen, and not alone.
Thank You for Rising in Purple with Us!
Purple Day 2026, and the month leading up to it, were meaningful because so many people chose to join the movement. Thank you to everyone who wore purple, shared a story, supported EFMN’s work, or raised awareness in your community.