Stamford Walk To End Epilepsy, Purple Picnic Set For May At Cove Island Park

STAMFORD, CT — Families, friends and supporters from across Fairfield County are scheduled to gather on Saturday, May 16, at Stamford’s Cove Island Park for the ninth annual Epilepsy Walk & Purple Picnic for the Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut. The walk begins at 9 a.m. and will be followed by a picnic in the park with boxed lunches provided, according to event information from the organization. Organizers also say the event will include activities for kids, inspiring speakers and a dog-friendly walk.

Greenwich residents Danielle Blaine and her daughter, Gabrielle "Gabi" Blaine, are co-chairs of the event. The family said the gathering is intended not only to raise money, but also to connect people affected by epilepsy with others facing similar experiences. Advance registration is available at epilepsyct.com.

Danielle Blaine said the annual walk fills an important need for people who may feel alone after a diagnosis. She joined the Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut board of directors last fall, and she and Gabi have spent 15 years volunteering with the group.

"A diagnosis of epilepsy is often kept private for many reasons, which can sometimes leave some feeling isolated," Danielle said. "This walk brings together individuals and families from Fairfield County, allowing them to meet others with a similar diagnosis, connect, and share in a day of community, understanding, and hope. That sense of community is life-changing. No one should face epilepsy alone."

The foundation describes epilepsy as a neurological condition marked by recurrent seizures, including staring spells, uncontrolled movements, loss of consciousness or temporary confusion. According to the event materials, more than 60,000 children and adults in Connecticut live with epilepsy, and one in 26 people nationwide will develop the condition during their lifetime. The materials also say epilepsy is most prevalent among children younger than 2 and adults 65 and older, and that more than 30 percent of people continue to have uncontrolled seizures even while taking medication.

Gabi Blaine, 28, said she understands those challenges through her own diagnosis of Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy.

"If others are not educated about seizures or trained in seizure safety, a tonic-clonic seizure can be very frightening to witness," Gabi said. "I feel fortunate that my seizures are generally well controlled on medication, although it took many years and more than six medications to find the right combination. I’m grateful that I’ve been able to volunteer with the Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut to support those who face greater challenges."

People interested in attending the May 16 event in Stamford can sign up at epilepsyct.com by selecting the Stamford Walk under the events tab.