NYS Landmarks Lit Purple for Epilepsy Awareness

Introduction to Epilepsy Awareness

Wednesday was International Purple Day in honor of epilepsy awareness. Fourteen landmarks across New York State were lit purple to recognize the strength of the epilepsy community.
Epilepsy is a disorder of the central nervous system resulting in seizures that may have no apparent cause and that happen more than once. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 215,000 people in New York are living with active epilepsy.

Virtual Seizure First Aid Training

The Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern New York held a virtual seizure first aid training session on Wednesday night to help educate people on how they can help and what signs to look for.
They said it’s essential to be able to tell first responders "what happened next" in regard to the seizure, including if the person is awake, confused, or not conscious. They also said to know what part of the face and body was involved and if you noticed changes in speech or behavior.

What to Do During a Seizure

The Epilepsy Foundation also said to call 911 if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes or if they’re hurt, pregnant, sick, having difficulty breathing, or in water. You should also never restrain the person or put any objects in their mouth.
More information can be found on the Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern New York’s website.

List of Landmarks Lit Purple

The landmarks that were lit purple Wednesday included:

• 1WTC
• Governor Mario M. Cuomo Bridge
• Kosciuszko Bridge
• The H. Carl McCall SUNY Building
• State Education Building
• Alfred E. Smith State Office Building
• Empire State Plaza
• State Fairgrounds – Main Gate & Expo Center
• Niagara Falls
• The “Franklin D. Roosevelt” Mid-Hudson Bridge
• Albany International Airport Gateway
• MTA LIRR – East End Gateway at Penn Station
• Fairport Lift Bridge over the Erie Canal
• Moynihan Train Hall

Conclusion

In conclusion, the lighting of NYS landmarks in purple is a significant step towards raising awareness about epilepsy and showing support for the epilepsy community. By educating people on seizure first aid and promoting awareness, we can work towards creating a more supportive and inclusive environment for those living with epilepsy.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions about epilepsy and seizure first aid:

• Q: What is epilepsy?
  A: Epilepsy is a disorder of the central nervous system resulting in seizures that may have no apparent cause and that happen more than once.
• Q: How many people in New York are living with active epilepsy?
  A: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that 215,000 people in New York are living with active epilepsy.
• Q: What should I do if someone is having a seizure?
  A: Call 911 if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes or if they’re hurt, pregnant, sick, having difficulty breathing, or in water. Never restrain the person or put any objects in their mouth.
• Q: Where can I find more information on epilepsy and seizure first aid?
  A: More information can be found on the Epilepsy Foundation of Northeastern New York’s website.