PEOPLE watching The Falkirk Wheel at dusk on Wednesday 26 March will see purple when the iconic landmark is floodlit this shade to highlight international epilepsy awareness day.
Fun-filled occasions like this one to mark Purple Day reflects support for the 54,000 people who live in Scotland with this condition.
Scottish Canals products and services manager, Cara Baillie, who is arranging the Wheel’s purple-toned appearance for sunset, said: “This is an exciting way for Epilepsy Scotland to draw attention to a worthwhile cause. We are proud to be a part of their Turn Scotland Purple campaign.”
Epilepsy Scotland chief executive, Lesslie Young, remarked: “We are thrilled that the Falkirk Wheel is the third iconic landmark to glow purple this week. Many businesses, MSPs, schools and supporters across Scotland are joining in and doing what they can to raise awareness. All of their efforts will certainly help to get people talking about epilepsy and hopefully lessen the social stigma around it.
“Our free Purple Day pack on our website shows how to get involved and become better informed about epilepsy. People can wear purple to school or to work, or fundraise for us by making purple-coloured cupcakes or tray bakes. It’s time this often hidden and misunderstood condition came out of the shadows. In our 60th year, everyone can draw attention to epilepsy on 26 March by going purple-tastic!”
ENDS
Notes to editor:
1. Epilepsy Scotland works with people living with epilepsy to ensure that their voice is heard. We campaign for improved healthcare, better information provision and an end to stigma. This common serious neurological condition affects one in 97 people. We represent the estimated 54,000 Scots with epilepsy, their families and carers. Our freephone Helpline (0808 800 2200) offers support and information, text 07786 209501, email: enquiries@epilepsyscotland.org.uk, find us on facebook or twitter @epilepsy_scot twitter or visit: www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk
2. The Falkirk Wheel will be lit purple from dusk to 11pm. It joins The SSE Hydro and Oban’s McCaig’s Tower in celebrating the charity’s Turn Scotland Purple campaign. Sheep grazing on the M8 Pyramids Business Park hills near Bathgate will have purple fleeces on 26 March Purple Day is in its sixth year. In 2014, Epilepsy Scotland (inaugurated November 1954) celebrates its Diamond Jubilee. For more details call: Allana Parker, Public Affairs Officer 07884 012 147 or 0141 427 4911.
PRESS RELEASE issued by Epilepsy Scotland. You too can post your story ideas for journalists (aka press or media releases), on allmediascotland.com. Email info@allmediascotland.com for more information.
Contact: Allana Parker
Phone: 07884012147
Email: aparker@epilepsyscotland.org.uk
Website: http://www.epilepsyscotland.org.uk
