A group called Knit & Chat operates from the Wantage Methodist Church and has recently collaborated with SUDEP Action, a Wantage-based epilepsy charity, to create knitted purple hearts. This initiative aligns with the charity’s mission to send the hearts to every Member of Parliament (MP) ahead of Purple Day, an international epilepsy awareness event observed on March 26.
Jane Hannah, the chief executive of SUDEP Action, explains that the ‘purple hearts for purple day’ campaign aims to raise awareness about epilepsy risks, including Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). The initiative encourages MPs to wear the hearts on Purple Day, symbolizing their support for epilepsy awareness. According to the charity, every week, 21 people die from epilepsy—many of these deaths are young people and could potentially be prevented.
The Knit & Chat group embraced the opportunity to support SUDEP Action at the Wantage Methodist Church, knitting an impressive 650 purple hearts. Carolyn Roche, a member of the group, shared how their knitting skills have previously benefited numerous charitable causes. These include making jumpers for a school in Zambia, blankets for babies at the John Radcliffe Hospital, gloves for those affected by the Ukraine crisis, and twiddle muffs for people with dementia. They’ve also created emotion dolls, woolly hats for the homeless, and angel decorations that are blessed in the church and distributed across Wantage during Christmas.
SUDEP affects approximately 1 in 1,000 people with epilepsy and causes around 500 deaths annually in the UK. Despite its significant impact, many are unfamiliar with SUDEP. By funding research, running awareness campaigns, and advocating for better epilepsy care, SUDEP Action aims to reduce these preventable deaths. The organization also provides essential support and resources to individuals and families affected by epilepsy.
SUDEP often results from a seizure and can be caused by factors such as respiratory or cardiac arrest, low oxygen levels, or prolonged seizures that disrupt breathing. Though there is no cure for epilepsy or SUDEP, risks can be managed through measures like taking prescribed anti-seizure medication, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and attending regular medical check-ups. SUDEP Action supports individuals in managing these risks through a helpline, online chat, and other resources.
Epilepsy remains a misunderstood and sometimes stigmatized condition, but the efforts of volunteers, such as the Knit & Chat group, and charities like SUDEP Action play a critical role in fostering understanding and support. Their work not only raises awareness but also offers practical assistance to those living with epilepsy and their loved ones.
If you’re interested in supporting local charities or exploring groups like Knit & Chat, our Clubs and Societies Directory is a great place to start. For more local activities and events, you can browse the directory or submit an event.
