Carbondale Reporter

Illinois state Rep. Paul Jacobs (R-Pomona) shared information about Epilepsy Awareness Day in a March 26 Facebook post.

"There are approximately 50 million people around the world living with epilepsy making it one of the most common neurological diseases globally," he said in the post. He also shared a link to an Epilepsy Foundation report that explains in full detail what epilepsy is. The symptoms of the disease include brain disorder and recurring seizures.

"Epilepsy is a brain disorder that causes recurring, unprovoked seizures," the report said. "Your doctor may diagnose you with epilepsy if you have two unprovoked seizures or one unprovoked seizure with a high risk of more. Not all seizures are the result of epilepsy. Seizures may relate to a brain injury or a family trait, but often the cause is completely unknown."

The Epilepsy Foundation noted that epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders in the world. Epilepsy awareness is acknowledged internationally but is officially recognized in only one country.

"Purple Day" is the acknowledgment of Epilepsy Awareness Day, and it takes place annually on March 26, the Purple Day website stated. The day is a grassroots effort to raise awareness about the condition.

"Canada is the only country in the world who officially recognizes March 26th as Purple Day through the Purple Day Act implemented on June 28, 2012," Purple Day said.

The Epilepsy Foundation noted in a release that International Epilepsy Day allows people to share their experiences and encourages advocation for legislation to help those with the disease.

"Started in 2015 and organized by the International Bureau for Epilepsy (IBE) and the International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE), the day provides a platform for people with epilepsy to share their experiences and stories with a global audience," the foundation said in the release. "The day also calls for all people to advocate for appropriate legislation that will guarantee human rights of people with epilepsy and encourages people with epilepsy to live to their fullest potential. The Epilepsy Foundation is a full member of IBE."

Jacobs was elected to the Illinois House in 2020, the General Assembly website said. During his legislative experience, he has served on the Higher Education and Veterans’ Affairs committees. He resides in Pomona.