Purple Palooza
2021-03-26 18:30 - 20:30 (America/Toronto)
Although we decided to postpone the gala in 2020 to the fall in hopes of being able to host in person, we have decided to resume our regular spring timeframe for our 35th Annual Gala and plan for a VIRTUAL event, raising funds and epilepsy awareness from the comfort of our homes!
New this year, we will host our Spring Gala on March 26, 2021, which is recognized as National Purple Day. Purple Day is dedicated to spreading epilepsy awareness and was established several years ago by nine-year-old Cassidy Megan, who will join us as a guest speaker. Cassidy wanted everyone living with epilepsy to know they were not alone, which makes Purple Day the perfect day to celebrate by hosting our second virtual gala.
On Friday, March 26 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm, you are invited to join us live virtually for our Purple Palooza! Take this opportunity to celebrate March Epilepsy Awareness month, wear your purple, order from one of our dinner partners, and show your support for individuals and families affected by epilepsy across our community! Our goal is to raise $35,000 to help support our Public Education Programs throughout Southwestern Ontario, and we truly need your support!
Where: The comfort of your own home.
When: Friday, March 26, 2021 from 6:30pm – 8:30pm.
Tickets: $25/household, includes live entertainment and digital swag bags.
Payment: Purchase online, through cheque made payable to ‘Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario’, by calling 519-433-4073 or by e-transfer to accounting@epilepsyswo.ca and emailing bailey@epilepsyswo.ca to let us know who you’re paying for.
CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS
Virtual Silent Auction
Auction opens: Friday, March 19 at 12:00 noon
Auction closes: Gala Night! Friday, March 26 at 9:00 pm
This year’s silent auction will be brought to you at home. Bid on a number of exciting items including gift baskets, golf packages, family outings, and more.
The link to view items will be updated shortly. Silent auction items will need to be picked up at the ESWO head office.
ENTER SILENT AUCTION HERE

Mystery Booze Auction
If you’ve been to Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario’s Gala in person, then you’re familiar with our wine pull! This year, we’ve added a fun twist to our virtual ‘pull’ as part of our Purple Palooza Gala – included this year is wine AND booze. Pick out your mystery number and select “BUY NOW” to purchase the corresponding bottle. $20 per bottle. 19+ to purchase. You could win anything from the photo to the left! Our team member Bailey will email you following the event to share what wine/alcohol bottle you’ve won.
Thank you to our amazing supporters: Coopers Hawk Winery, Frisky Beaver, Peller Estates, Wellington Brewery, Equals Brewery, Blackly, Lisa Jorgensen, Elaine Swan, Susan Pushelberg, Tom Stadnisky, Meaghan Lee, Karen Lucas, Tabitha Cook, Krista Doyle, Sharron Berry Ross, Katelynn Thibert, Josie Swan-Merrison, Melissa Pushelberg, Greg & Michelle Franklin, Brian Tschirsow, Rheault Distillery, and Lynn Shainline.
ENTER MYSTERY BOOZE AUCTION HERE – SOLD OUT

Macbook Air Raffle
Working from home? Kids online learning? Buy a raffle ticket for a chance to win a new Apple MacBook Air! 13.3″ w/ touch ID (2020) Value $2300. Tickets: $25, available until March 25. Big thank you to Festival City Glass & Tint for sponsoring!
The winner will be announced LIVE during our Purple Palooza event!
Contact bailey@epilepsyswo.ca to purchase your tickets.
Host Nick Paparella
We are very excited to introduce Nick Paparella as our honourary host for our ESWO Virtual Gala!
Nick is the longest serving News Reporter at CTV News London.
Nick has been married to his high-school sweetheart Evelyn for more than 30 years. They have three very active and happy adult sons. Among his many interests, Nick supports several charities and community organizations with his time.
Virtual Magician
Keith Brown
Keith Brown is a world-class VIP entertainer and keynote speaker. He has inspired wonder in over 22 countries & counting. He was chosen Toronto’s BEST Magician and he’s not even from Toronto… Most recently, Keith performed for the President and First Lady of Iceland. When he’s not touring his show or entertaining at private events Keith trains Ivey MBAs & business executives in effective communication and high impact presentation skills.
“Very Entertaining” – Eliza Reid, First Lady of Iceland
“You’re Incredible!” – Dave Grohl, Foo Fighters
“WOW!” – Joe Thornton, San Jose Sharks
https://www.absolutemagic.ca/

Special Guest Speaker
Cassidy Megan, Founder of Purple Day for Epilepsy
Cassidy started Purple Day several years ago when she was just nine years old to raise awareness for people with epilepsy and to let them know that they aren’t alone.
Today, Purple Day is celebrated all around the world in over 100 countries. You can show your support by wearing purple on March 26th every year and taking part in activities in your community.
H.O.P.E. Award Recipient
Every year at our gala we present a H.O.P.E. award (Helping out People with Epilepsy) to a person, group of people or organization who has shown great care and compassion and made a difference in the lives of people living with epilepsy. Techdoz has allowed Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario (ESWO) to remain current and thrive in an ever changing technological world. With the in-kind support of Techdoz, the professionalism of ESWO online events have been enhanced, and client support has been made more accessible. Their staff team works tirelessly to provide prompt knowledge and expertise, addressing any technical difficulties that arise. On behalf of ESWO, thank you, Techdoz for your continuous sponsorship and support.
Music Bingo
Interactive Game
Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go, What’s Love Got To Do With It, Happy from Despicable Me, Call Me Maybe… what do all these songs have in common? They might just be the square you need to win during our live music bingo game! Music Bingo ran by Team Trivia.
Dinner Partners
We have collaborated with two local restaurants for you to bring home your favourite food to enjoy while you tune in! Order and pick up your dinner option with either partner listed below.
Palasad
London, ON
Support ESWO by ordering contactless pickup at either Palasad location. For every pick up order over $25, Palasad will donate $10 to ESWO. Further order details to come.
Cook for a Cause Information
Oven 360
Chatham, Windsor, Emeryville, LaSalle, Leamington & Sarnia, ON
Order a pizza or panini for pickup at any of the Oven 360 locations and ESWO will receive a 20% kickback. Available for PICKUP ONLY.
Kickback does not apply if using a delivery service such as Uber Eats. You MUST include a note in your online order that it is for the ESWO gala or mention the ESWO gala to the cashier at the time of pickup for a kickback to be received.
Please note, since it’s a Friday night, please order early.
Become a Sponsor
To become an event sponsor or to contribute to our silent auction, please contact bailey@epilepsyswo.ca
Check back for regular updates, we can’t wait to see you then!
Our Generous and Valued Contributors
Pre-Party Sponsor:

Entertainment Sponsors:

Oke Woodsmith Building Systems has shared a promotional video for you to watch and learn more about them and what they do.

Gala Participant:

Hope Sponsors:

Purple Sponsors:
BlueStone Properties
Hyde Construction Limited
Elgin Contracting and Restoration Ltd.
Wayne and Harold Smith Construction Ltd.
Technology Supporter:
Techdoz

CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE TICKETS

Curbside for a Cause
2021-04-28 10:00 - 2021-05-02 20:00 | White Squirrel Golf Club, 72538 Bluewater Highway #21, Zurich, Ontario, N0M 2T0, Canada
White Squirrel Golf Club and Restaurant wanted to spread a little positivity so they are teaming up to help support ESWO.

How it works: Order for curbside pickup from April 28-May 2 and $2 from each meal, beer/wine, or feature dessert will be donated to ESWO!

For pre-orders call or text 519-282-9713.
For menu see: www.whitesquirrelgolfclub.com/take-out/

Online Support Group for Adults (18+)
2021-06-08 13:00 - 14:00
In response to recent feedback from our clients, Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario has decided to develop a new online support group for adults (18+) who are living with epilepsy within the ESWO service area. The group will meet bi-weekly on Tuesdays from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm, beginning June 8th. This is a drop-in group with weekly planned topics to facilitate conversation about issues that are important to people living with epilepsy. Our hope is to provide a space for our community members to meet others with epilepsy and have an opportunity to share their experiences and coping strategies. For more information contact Holly O’Neill at holly@epilepsyswo.ca.

ESWO Chatham-Kent Drive-Thru Ribfest
2021-06-11 - 2021-06-13 | Chatham Memorial Arena, 82 Tweedsmuir Ave W, Chatham, Ontario, N7M 2A4, Canada
Dates and Times:
Friday, June 11, 2021 12pm – 8pm

Saturday, June 12, 2021 11am – 8pm

Sunday, June 13, 2021 11am – 7pm

Location:

Memorial Arena Parking Lot 80 Tweedsmuir Ave W, Chatham

ESWO is excited to host its first-ever Ribfest on June 11-13, 2021 in Chatham. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this event will be drive-thru only, guests will pick up their food from vendors and enjoy in the safety of their own vehicles or home. The event will comply with all health and safety standards and recommendations as set out by the Municipality of Chatham-Kent.
Our goal is to raise $15,000 to help support programming in the Chatham-Kent area. If you’re interested in supporting this event, please connect with sandra@epilepsyswo.ca
The event will be entry by donation.
Ribber Menus:

More information and all event details: https://epilepsyswo.ca/ck-drive-thru-ribfest/

Online Support Group for Teens (Ages 14-17)
2021-06-15 13:00 - 14:00
Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario is excited to announce that we will be facilitating a new online support/social group for teens aged 14-17 living with epilepsy. Open to all clients in the ESWO area, the group will meet bi-weekly on Tuesdays from 1:00 pm – 2:00 pm, beginning June 15th. The goal of the group is to build peer relationships and community for teens living with epilepsy. We will have planned weekly discussion topics related to epilepsy, as well as offer an opportunity to learn from each other’s experiences. For more information contact Holly O’Neill at holly@epilepsyswo.ca.

Quarter Auction
2021-06-25 08:00 - 2021-06-30 21:00
THIRD-PARTY EVENT – We’re grateful to be the recipient of funds raised for the upcoming quarter auction.
Facebook event: https://www.facebook.com/groups/266004508074131/?ref=share
A quarter auction is part auction, part raffle, part fundraiser, and all parts fun! You purchase a paddle for $5, which is to be used with quarters for bidding on items. 16 vendors will auction off items and donate part to ESWO.
You must have a paddle to participate in the auction. There will also be a golden paddle (which allows you to bid on every item for free).
Paddles and 50/50 tickets will go on sale on June 25, 2021. Bidding will take place June 27 – 30 and the live draw will be held on July 2 at 6 pm.
ESWO will receive donations from this third-party event through the purchase of paddles, part of the bids, and the 50/50 sales. Thank you for your support!
Please visit the Facebook page for more information.

Wacky Weekday Camp: Edible Science
2021-07-12 15:00 - 16:00
Hey kids! ESWO invites you to take part in our Wacky Weekdays virtual summer camp filled with fun crafts, silly games, and even tasty treats!
The Virtual Wacky Weekday Summer Camp has been created for children living with epilepsy and their siblings between the ages of 4 and 12 from any region of Southwestern Ontario.
Monday, July 12th: Edible Science (Ice Cream in a Bag)
Want to beat the summer heat this summer with a fun edible science project? Ice cream in a bag is the perfect solution! Join us Monday, July 12th at 3 pm on Zoom as we make a delicious treat.
Email kidscamp@epilepsyswo.ca for registration details.

Family Movement and Mindfulness
2021-07-14 15:00 - 15:30, 2021-07-21 15:00 - 15:30, 2021-07-28 15:00 - 15:30, 2021-08-04 15:00 - 15:30
Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario and one of our wonderful parents who is also a Yoga Teacher have developed a wonderful opportunity for your family (or your child alone) to participate in a Mindful Movement Series.
“Mindful movements access our mind-body connection and support and improve our physical, mental and emotional strength. Through breathing exercises, movements, brain breaks and relaxation techniques we increase our internal awareness and are able to better calm and focus our minds and bodies.”
Instructor: Kimberley Webb, BA(Hons.), B.Ed, YTT-200, CYT, PYT

Wednesday’s at 3:00 pm (30 min to 45 min)
July 14 to August 11, 2021
All ages included
Accessible virtually to all through ZOOM

If you are interested in participating in Family Movement and Mindfulness Sessions, please contact kidscamp@epilepsyswo.ca for more information.

Wacky Weekday Camp: Christmas in July
2021-07-16 15:00 - 16:00
Hey kids! ESWO invites you to take part in our Wacky Weekdays virtual summer camp filled with fun crafts, silly games, and even tasty treats!
The Virtual Wacky Weekday Summer Camp has been created for children living with epilepsy and their siblings between the ages of 4 and 12 from any region of Southwestern Ontario.
Friday, July 16th: Christmas in July
Got a case of the Summer Blues? Join us on July 16th at 3 pm for Christmas in July as we play a fun Christmas-themed game! We encourage you to dress up for the occasion!
Email kidscamp@epilepsyswo.ca for registration details.

Wacky Weekday Camp: DIY Lava Lamp
2021-07-19 15:00 - 16:00
Hey kids! ESWO invites you to take part in our Wacky Weekdays virtual summer camp filled with fun crafts, silly games, and even tasty treats!
The Virtual Wacky Weekday Summer Camp has been created for children living with epilepsy and their siblings between the ages of 4 and 12 from any region of Southwestern Ontario.
Monday, July 19th: DIY Lava Lamp
Bubbles, fizz, colours, and more. You can experience all the wonders of science with this do-it-yourself Alka-Seltzer Lava Lamp! Join us Monday, July 19th at 3 pm as we create our own personal Lava Lamps.
Email kidscamp@epilepsyswo.ca for registration details.

Virtual Adult Support Group
2021-07-20 13:00 - 14:00, 2021-08-03 13:00 - 14:00, 2021-08-17 13:00 - 14:00, 2021-08-31 13:00 - 14:00
Making connections and building meaningful relationships can be an important part of living a happy and healthy life. Epilepsy can sometimes pose a barrier for people and make it more challenging to establish meaningful relationships. Our virtual support group meets bi-weekly on Tuesdays from 1:00 – 2:00 pm.
This is a drop-in group with weekly planned topics to facilitate conversation about issues that are important to people living with epilepsy. Our hope is to provide a space for our community members to meet others with epilepsy and have an opportunity to share their experiences and coping strategies. If you are interested in this session or future sessions, email holly@epilepsyswo.ca to register.

Wacky Weekday Camp: Jello Aquarium
2021-07-24 15:00 - 16:00
Hey kids! ESWO invites you to take part in our Wacky Weekdays virtual summer camp filled with fun crafts, silly games, and even tasty treats!
The Virtual Wacky Weekday Summer Camp has been created for children living with epilepsy and their siblings between the ages of 4 and 12 from any region of Southwestern Ontario.
Saturday, July 24th: Jello Aquarium
Do you miss seeing the different types of fish the world has to offer since the temporary closure of Aquariums? Now you can make your own edible version with this family-friendly activity, where your fish are completely edible! Join us Saturday, July 24th at 3 pm to make your own edible aquarium.
Email kidscamp@epilepsyswo.ca for registration details.

Wacky Weekday Camp: Toilet Paper Roll Zoo
2021-07-26 15:00 - 16:00
Hey kids! ESWO invites you to take part in our Wacky Weekdays virtual summer camp filled with fun crafts, silly games, and even tasty treats!
The Virtual Wacky Weekday Summer Camp has been created for children living with epilepsy and their siblings between the ages of 4 and 12 from any region of Southwestern Ontario.
Monday, July 26th: Toilet Paper Roll Zoo
Let’s take a trip to the Savanna, The Arctic, The Jungle, and more from the comfort of our own homes. With this Toilet Paper Roll Zoo craft, we will journey through these different ecosystems by making the animals that live there. Join us Monday, July 26th at 3 pm when we will create these cute creatures!
Email kidscamp@epilepsyswo.ca for registration details.

Virtual Teen Support Group
2021-07-27 13:00 - 14:00, 2021-08-10 13:00 - 14:00, 2021-08-24 13:00 - 14:00

Wacky Weekday Camp: Canadian Flag Wind Flyer
2021-07-30 15:00 - 16:00
Hey kids! ESWO invites you to take part in our Wacky Weekdays virtual summer camp filled with fun crafts, silly games, and even tasty treats!
The Virtual Wacky Weekday Summer Camp has been created for children living with epilepsy and their siblings between the ages of 4 and 12 from any region of Southwestern Ontario.
Friday, July 30th: Canadian Flag Wind Flyer
Want to make something to represent your pride in Canada? This Canadian flag Wind Flyer is a perfect way too! Join us Friday, July 30th at 3 pm to make your own!
Email kidscamp@epilepsyswo.ca for registration details.

Wacky Weekday Camp: I spy (Animals in Their Natural Habitat)
2021-08-09 15:00 - 16:00
Hey kids! ESWO invites you to take part in our Wacky Weekdays virtual summer camp filled with fun crafts, silly games, and even tasty treats!
The Virtual Wacky Weekday Summer Camp has been created for children living with epilepsy and their siblings between the ages of 4 and 12 from any region of Southwestern Ontario.
Monday, August 2nd: I spy (Animals in Their Natural Habitat)
I spy with my little eye…Animals! A whole ecosystem of them! In this fun zoom activity, you’ll be able to search for animals hiding in their natural habitats while experiencing some friendly competition with the other competitors. Join us on Monday, August 9th at 3 pm to participate in the fun!
Email kidscamp@epilepsyswo.ca for registration details.

Family Movement and Mindfulness
2021-08-13 17:30, 2021-08-18 17:30
Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario and one of our wonderful parents who is also a Yoga Teacher have developed a wonderful opportunity for your family (or your child alone) to participate in a Mindful Movement Series.
“Mindful movements access our mind-body connection and support and improve our physical, mental and emotional strength. Through breathing exercises, movements, brain breaks and relaxation techniques we increase our internal awareness and are able to better calm and focus our minds and bodies.”
Instructor: Kimberley Webb, BA(Hons.), B.Ed, YTT-200, CYT, PYT

Wednesday’s at 5:30 pm (30 min to 45 min)
July 14 to August 18, 2021
All ages included
Accessible virtually to all through ZOOM

If you are interested in participating in Family Movement and Mindfulness Sessions, please contact kidscamp@epilepsyswo.ca for more information.

Virtual Teen Support Group
2021-09-07 16:00 - 17:00
Making connections and building meaningful relationships can be an important part of living a happy and healthy life. Epilepsy can sometimes pose a barrier for people and make it more challenging to establish meaningful relationships. Our virtual support group meets bi-weekly on Tuesdays from 4:00 – 5:00 pm.
This is a drop-in group with weekly planned topics to facilitate conversation about issues that are important to people living with epilepsy. Our hope is to provide a space for our community members to meet others with epilepsy and have an opportunity to share their experiences and coping strategies. If you are interested in this session or future sessions, email holly@epilepsyswo.ca to register.

Tee’in Off for Epilepsy
2021-09-17 07:00 - 2021-09-18 19:00 | White Squirrel Golf Club, 72538 Bluewater Hwy, Zurich, Ontario, N0M 2T0, Canada
Third Party Event – We’re so grateful to be the recipient of the funds for the 3rd Annual Teeing Off For Epilepsy Golf Tournament which will be held Friday, September 17, 2021 and Saturday, September 18, 2021 at White Squirrel Golf Club.
The event is hosted by Team Oke.
Cost: $600 for a 4 person team registration. (Registration deadline Sept 10, 2021)
Fee includes: Golf & cart, lunch, prizes and games.
Please contact Joanne at jcoke@okewoodsmith.com for more information.
>>>>>Registration Form<<<<<<
Last year, Team Oke was able to raise over $32,000 to help support individuals living with epilepsy, like their son Jarett. Get a glimpse of the tournament by watching 2020 promo video.

Seize the Day
2021-09-24 08:00 - 2021-09-26 16:00
Seize the Day Your Way!
The 8th Annual Seize the Day Event Takes on Epilepsy Virtually!
Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario (ESWO) will host its 8th Annual Seize the Day 5k Run / 2.5k Walk virtually this year. Walk/Run in your community from Friday, September 24, 2021 to Sunday, September 26, 2021 and join us for our Opening and Closing Ceremonies to celebrate.
Even though we have chosen to host the event virtually, the goal is the same… to raise funds to provide support and educational services for people living with epilepsy, their families and their communities throughout Southwestern Ontario.
Whether you are participating to honour someone you sadly lost to a seizure, supporting those affected by epilepsy, or want to help raise awareness, we invite you to join us for this special occasion. If you are a marathon runner, a leisurely jogger or a causal walker… everyone is welcome to participate! We hope you can join us and help make this annual event even bigger this year to show people living with epilepsy that they are not alone!
For more information and to register online:
Register Online Here

Seize the Day Windsor
2021-09-24 08:00 - 2021-09-26 16:00
Seize the Day Your Way!
The 5th Annual Seize the Day Event Takes on Epilepsy Virtually!
Epilepsy Southwestern Ontario (ESWO) Windsor will host its 5th Annual Seize the Day 5k Run / 2.5k Walk virtually this year. Walk/Run in your community from Friday, September 24, 2021 to Sunday, September 26, 2021 and join us for our Opening and Closing Ceremonies to celebrate.
Even though we have chosen to host the event virtually, the goal is the same… to raise funds to provide support and educational services for people living with epilepsy, their families and their communities throughout Southwestern Ontario.
Whether you are participating to honour someone you sadly lost to a seizure, supporting those affected by epilepsy, or want to help raise awareness, we invite you to join us for this special occasion. If you are a marathon runner, a leisurely jogger or a causal walker… everyone is welcome to participate! We hope you can join us and help make this annual event even bigger this year to show people living with epilepsy that they are not alone!

For more information and to register online:
Register Online Here
