Minister goes to new heights to celebrate National Purple Day

Minister for Seniors and Disability Services and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships Craig Crawford this evening climbed the Story Bridge to raise awareness and show support for Queenslanders living with epilepsy on National Purple Day.

“It was fabulous to take part in the climb challenge along with 25 other people including those impacted by epilepsy, clinicians from the Mater’s Advanced Epilepsy Service and team members of Brisbane Roar, as the Story Bridge turned purple,” Mr Crawford said.

“With more than 28,700 people living with epilepsy in our state, it’s important to celebrate and recognise the contributions of Queenslanders with epilepsy.

“The Palaszczuk Government wants all people with disability to be empowered, treated with respect and dignity and have equal access to pathways into employment, social, cultural and economic opportunities.

Mr Crawford said promoting awareness of people living with epilepsy was a top priority.

“We want to build an inclusive community where every Queenslander with disability is included and able participate in the community to so they can reach their full potential.

“Make March Purple for Epilepsy complements Epilepsy Queensland’s efforts to empower people with epilepsy and make positive impacts in the community,” he said.

Epilepsy Queensland Chief Executive Officer, Chris Dougherty said an estimated 245 Queenslanders would be newly diagnosed with epilepsy during March, and despite this, there are still many misconceptions about epilepsy.

“Epilepsy Queensland aims to address those misconceptions through Make March Purple for Epilepsy campaign,” he said.

“During March, we’re excited to light up some Queensland’s iconic landmarks from Brisbane’s Story Bridge and Suncorp Stadium, to Cairns’ Munro Martin Parklands and Townsville’s Wharton Reef Lighthouse in purple to shine a light on epilepsy across the state.

“We are grateful that Minister Crawford has shown his support for the epilepsy community by helping to build understanding of epilepsy and fundraising for our essential services.”

For more information about Make March Purple visit Epilepsy Queensland: Make March Purple.

To find out more about support available for people with epilepsy visit Epilepsy Queensland.

ENDS

Media contact: Gemma Buxton 0477 445 331