Step Up 4 Epilepsy

Since 1960, the Edmonton Epilepsy Association (EEA) has been dedicated to a single, vital mission: empowering people who live with epilepsy. For over 65 years, we've been a voice, a resource, and a supportive community for individuals impacted by this often-misunderstood neurological disease.

In March 2026—Epilepsy Awareness Month—we are proud to return with the second annual “Step Up 4 Epilepsy” Walkathon and Fundraising Event, hosted at one of the city's busiest and most diverse venues: West Edmonton Mall (WEM).

Why It Matters

Epilepsy affects over 30,000 people in our region alone. Yet for many, it remains a condition shrouded in stigma, fear, and misinformation. Every seizure that occurs in public risks being misunderstood. Every diagnosis brings questions that deserve answers. And every person impacted by epilepsy—directly or indirectly—deserves to know they’re not alone.

March is the time we shine a light on epilepsy. And on this particular day in March, we’re bringing epilepsy into one of the most public places in the city, where thousands of mall visitors can pause, learn, ask questions, and engage.

What the Day Will Look Like

The day begins early, as participants in the walkathon gather at WEM between 7:30 and 9:30 a.m. Walking inside the mall, individuals and teams will step in unison to raise funds and visibility. Each participant will proudly wear a purple ID sign, symbolic of epilepsy awareness, and will receive a thank-you kit with water, a healthy snack and a small gift of appreciation.

This walkathon isn’t just a fundraiser—it’s a public statement. Participants will compete in friendly challenges: who walked the most steps, who formed the largest team, who raised the most pledges. More importantly, they will walk to raise awareness and break the silence around epilepsy.

After the walk, our attention turns to education and community outreach. From 10:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., the E360 Community Booth will serve as our central hub inside the mall. Staffed by volunteers and EEA staff, this space will provide answers, resources, and support to anyone curious about epilepsy, seizure first aid, or the work of our charity.

For families and children, we’re bringing back our much-loved “Kids on the Block” puppet shows—two free performances taking place on the stage near the LEGO Store. These shows use storytelling and engaging characters to teach kids what epilepsy is, how to respond if a friend has a seizure, and how kindness and inclusion matter. The show offers information designed for young minds, delivered in a way that feels fun and memorable.

And for adults and youth alike, we’re proud to partner once again with Big Hearts First Aid to present two free seizure first aid sessions. These live demonstrations will teach the basics of what to do—and what not to do—if someone has a seizure. Hands-on, easy to follow, and immensely valuable, these sessions have the power to save lives.