What is Make May Purple / Action on Stroke Month?
Make May Purple, also known as Action on Stroke Month, is observed every May in the UK to increase awareness about stroke, its warning signs, and the impact it has on survivors and their families. The campaign is spearheaded by the Stroke Association, which encourages communities, individuals, and organizations to wear purple and participate in activities that help fund stroke research and support services. This month is dedicated to educating the public about stroke prevention, treatment, and the importance of swift action to improve outcomes.
History and Origin
The initiative began as part of a broader effort to enhance stroke awareness and has been instrumental in bringing attention to the condition as a major health issue. It has evolved to include a focus on recovery and rehabilitation, highlighting the challenges and successes of stroke survivors. By turning the month of May purple, the campaign visually unites participants in a shared cause, significantly boosting its visibility and impact.
Who Celebrates Make May Purple / Action on Stroke Month?
- Stroke Survivors and Their Families: Share their stories and participate in events to raise awareness.
- Healthcare Professionals: Doctors, nurses, and therapists specializing in stroke care offer seminars and free health screenings.
- Educational Institutions: Schools and universities organize awareness programs and engage students in learning about stroke prevention.
- Corporations: Many businesses support the cause by hosting fundraising events and encouraging employees to wear purple.
- Community Groups: Local groups often arrange walks, runs, and other activities to raise money and foster community support.
Themes and Slogans
The campaign uses themes like “Rebuilding Lives,” “Prevent, Protect, Preserve,” and “Every Second Counts” to educate the public about the seriousness of stroke and the importance of immediate response. These slogans emphasize the potential for recovery and the crucial steps that can save lives.
Colors, Symbols, and Patterns
- Colors: Purple is the dominant color, symbolizing the fight against stroke and representing the solidarity and strength of the stroke community.
- Symbols: The ribbon is a central symbol, often depicted in purple, representing stroke awareness and survivor support.
- Patterns: Patterns typically include bold purple stripes or splashes, which are used in promotional materials to catch the eye and emphasize urgency and action.
Most Used Hashtags
- #MakeMayPurple
- #StrokeMonth
- #ActionOnStroke
- #StrokeAwareness
- #RebuildingLives
How to Celebrate
- Wear Purple: Show support by wearing purple throughout the month.
- Participate in Events: Join or organize walks, runs, and other fundraising events.
- Educational Workshops: Attend or host workshops to learn more about stroke prevention and management.
- Social Media Campaigns: Use social media to spread awareness using the campaign’s hashtags.
- Donate: Contribute to stroke research and support organizations.
Make May Purple / Action on Stroke Month serves as a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of stroke and the resilience of those affected. It’s a time to stand together in solidarity, draped in purple, to support survivors and remember those lost to stroke. Let’s turn the world purple and ‘stroke’ awareness into every heart!