Family to host Grand Pier Ball to raise funds for Epilepsy charities

The Purple Ball is being held on Saturday 7th March at The Grand Pier Johdi Russell who sadly passed away in 2017, aged just 17yrs old, from Sudden Unexpected Death In Epilepsy (SUDEP)

Organisers are looking for raffle and silent auction prizes and tickets can be purchased here

Organiser Aimie Russell said; “We organise The Purple Ball event in memory of my sister, Johdi Kate Russell, who sadly passed away from SUDEP (Sudden Unexpected Death In Epilepsy) in 2017. At the time of her death, my family had never heard of SUDEP. It was only after doing our own research that we discovered Johdi had shown many of the warning signs, which made her death even harder for us. That lack of awareness is what drives myself and my family to make sure other families dont have to experience the same shock and unanswered questions.”

”Since losing my sister I have organised quiz nights, running challenges and have completed a skydive to raise money and awareness. We created The Purple Ball in hopes to raise as much awareness as possible along with raising funds for our chosen charities; SUDEP Action and Epilepsy Awareness.”

“The Purple Ball has become much more than just a fundraising event over the years. It has brought together families and friends who has also lost loved ones to SUDEP. For many of them, this event is a safe and understanding space where they can remember those they have lost, share their stories, bring photos and feel less alone in their grief. Knowing that the event brings such comfort and connection is incredibly important to us.”

”For me, holding this event makes me feel close to Johdi. It’s a night to celebrate her life, even though it’s painful that she isn’t here to enjoy it herself. It’s an evening for our family and her friends to come together, talk about memories, laughs, cry and feel whatever emotions we need to. It’s about making memories while keeping Johdi included and reminding ourselves although she’s not physically here, she will always be part of us.”

Aimie Russell