Mahoning Valley Epilepsy fundraiser is Tuesday

Staff report

YOUNGSTOWN

Southern Park Mall will show its support for individuals with epilepsy by hosting “Purple Prison,” an event to benefit Mahoning Valley Epilepsy from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday.

The event is in conjunction with Purple Day, the international effort dedi-cated to increasing awareness about epilepsy worldwide.

Purple Prison will emulate a jail in which Mahoning County deputy sheriffs will “arrest” prominent local residents and transport them to a mock jail set up in the mall’s center court.

While in custody, the “prisoners” have unlimited use of a telephone to call friends, relatives, co-workers and business associates to raise bail set by a “judge” in the form of pledges to Mahoning Valley Epilepsy.

“Prisoners” will share facts about epilepsy with their personal contacts when asking for bail money.

The purpose of the Purple Prison is to encourage the public to learn more about epilepsy, its causes, symptoms, and how to help someone suffering a seizure, according to the organization’s press release.

The event also will highlight local resources, such as Mahoning Valley Epilepsy, available to support patients and families who are dealing with the challenges of living with the diagnosis.

In addition, the Purple Prison event will honor Eugene Shapshe. Shapshe, more commonly known as “Sonny the Hat Man” because of the colorful hats he designed and wore daily, was a permanent fixture at Southern Park Mall in Boardman.

In August 2012, Shapshe died from complications resulting from an accident.

At the event, a handmade hat will be given away in an auction, with funds benefiting Mahoning Valley Epilepsy. An art student at Youngstown State University created the tribute hat. Shapshe’s artwork will be on display at the event, and kids will have the opportunity to decorate and take home their own hats.

Mahoning Valley Epi- lepsy’s mission is to establish resources for the community to improve the quality of life of individuals and families affected by seizures through awareness, education, group support and advocacy. The organization serves children and adults.