Since 2008, March 26 has been recognized as World Epilepsy Day, also known as Purple Day.
The initiative began with Cassidy Megan, a 9-year-old girl from Canada living with epilepsy.
By the age of nine, she had already faced the stigma, prejudice, and discrimination that people with epilepsy often experience from both adults and peers.
To challenge the myths and misconceptions surrounding the condition, Cassidy set out to raise awareness about epilepsy, emphasizing that epilepsy does not mean intellectual disability, it is not a life sentence, and people with epilepsy deserve to live free from discrimination.
Today, epilepsy is one of the most widespread chronic neurological disorders in the world.
ℹ️ Since then, March 26 has been marked across countries as a day to raise awareness about the condition and to educate people on how to provide first aid for those experiencing seizures.
ℹ️ On this day, charity events, fairs, concerts, and sports activities are organized around the world to raise funds for people who live with epilepsy and struggle daily not only with their condition but with the social stigma attached to it.
ℹ️ Many of the world’s most famous landmarks are lit up in purple, the international color of epilepsy, which is known to have a calming effect on the nervous system.
In Armenia, around 5,000 children are currently battling epilepsy.
They are strong, resilient, and brave.
70% of them have the potential to recover and live full lives — if they receive the necessary medications and timely diagnostic support.
We hold onto hope and faith that one day, the stereotypes and myths about epilepsy will disappear, and we will not stop working until that day comes.
Hard times will pass. With hope and faith, we will keep moving forward, guided by our motto:
“Epilepsy — Out of the Shadows.”
The “Way of Life” Charitable Foundation is the only foundation in Armenia dedicated to addressing the health needs of children with epilepsy and other complex neurological conditions.
We support children by providing access to medications, diagnostic testing (such as MRI, EEG, PET-CT, and genetic analyses), and surgical interventions when needed.
Sadly, the number of children with epilepsy in Armenia is very high. At just one medical center — “Arabkir” Medical Complex — over 4,000 children are registered, many of whom live in severe social conditions and lack basic financial and psychological support.
The costs of treatment and diagnostics are extremely high, making it an unreachable dream for many families. Around 60-65% of our beneficiaries are children of single mothers, many of whom are unable to work as they must care for their child full-time.
Our mission is to ensure that every child receives access to modern medical care, including genetic testing and effective treatment, based on their individual needs.
Our beneficiaries are children with epilepsy and other serious neurological disorders — children who want to live, fight, overcome, and smile at the world. They deserve to live a full life, just like other children their age.
Epilepsy is a treatable condition, often completely curable, and with the help of modern medications, it can be effectively managed and controlled.
The “Way of Life” Foundation was founded by Yelena Baghdasaryan, whose son was diagnosed with epilepsy and overcame it, in collaboration with Dr. Biana Gagiki Sukhudyan, Head of the Neurology and Epileptology Service at Arabkir Medical Complex.
The name “Way of Life” reflects the long and challenging journey children with epilepsy must walk.
A journey that is fragile and difficult…
A journey toward life.
Neither the field of pediatric neurology, nor the foundation itself, currently receives government support. Yet the number of children in need is large, and the number of sponsors is limited.
That is why we organize events, social and charity campaigns (such as auctions, concerts, exhibitions, etc.) — to raise funds and draw attention to the health challenges faced by children with epilepsy and other neurological conditions.
One of our primary goals is also to raise public awareness about epilepsy and to challenge the deeply rooted stereotypes in society.
❗️You can now support us through Telcell terminals.
In the “Charitable Organizations” section, look for our logo. By clicking on it, you can donate directly— with no service fee.
