The 2.5km walk, organised by a Grade Seven pupil from Deutsche Internationale Schule in Johannesburg, was held to raise awareness for epilepsy.
According to Kandas Kandawire, assisting director at the Geduld centre, the residents reacted excitedly to news of the walk.
“It was the first time that some of the residents left the centre, not to mention visiting Sandton for the event,” he says.
The walk was part of the International Purple Day events, which are celebrated on March 26 each year when people from around the world wear purple and increase awareness, reduce stigma and empower individuals living with epilepsy to take action in their communities.
Kandas says the walk was fun and an exciting experience for all the walkers.
Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological disorders, affecting one in 100 people in South Africa and 50-million people worldwide.
Despite its prevalence, people with epilepsy continue to face discrimination.
“Purple Day reminds everyone that people living with epilepsy need understanding and acceptance, and deserve comprehensive care, but they are just like any other person,” says Kandas.
Raising awareness helps dispel myths and reminds people affected by seizure disorders that they are not alone.
