Purple Day is not just about wearing purple. It is about moments when people feel seen, supported, and brave enough to speak up.
For Tate, Purple Day became one of those moments.
I wanted to show people what epilepsy is like for me
Tate is 9 years old. He was diagnosed with epilepsy just after his eighth birthday.
When Purple Day came around the following year, Tate did not want it to pass quietly. He wanted to mark the moment - and he wanted people to understand.
So he decided to take on 26 miles in 26 days.
Not all at once. Not in one way. Just one mile at a time.
With his mum by his side, Tate walked, ran, cycled, climbed and swam his way through the challenge. Some days were easier than others. But every mile meant something.
Because for Tate, this was not just about fundraising.
It was about showing that epilepsy does not get to decide what he can or cannot do.
When one child leads, others follow
Something unexpected happened once Tate started talking about his challenge.
His school joined in.
On Purple Day, the entire school dressed in purple. Tate stood up in front of everyone and delivered an assembly about epilepsy - what it is like for him, what people might not see, and why understanding matters.
That moment mattered.
Not because it was perfect. But because it was honest.
A nine-year-old explaining his world in his own words, and a whole school listening.
“Epilepsy doesn’t have to stop you doing things you love”
That is the message Tate wanted people to take away.
And he is not finished yet.
This year marks Tate’s second epilepsy anniversary, and he has already signed up to take part in Purple Day again. He wants to do more. He wants to keep going.
Because once you realise your voice matters, it is hard to stay quiet.
Why stories like Tate’s matter
Tate’s story is not about doing something extraordinary.
It is about doing something possible.
One child.
One school.
One simple challenge.
And a reminder that when people show up - wear purple, move their miles, start conversations - it makes a real difference to how children and young people with epilepsy feel in the world.
Your voice belongs here too
Purple Day is made up of moments like Tate’s.
A walk with your family.
A conversation at school or work.
A decision to take part, even in a small way.
If you are planning to do something for Purple Day, you are already part of Voices in Purple.
And if you would like to share your story, we would love to hear it.
Because when voices come together, understanding grows - and no child has to feel alone.
