There was something truly special in the air at The Dickson Tradies on Saturday, 29 March. Families, kids, and carers gathered with a sense of quiet excitement, all eyes and ears ready to listen as local author Sarah Watts took centre stage for a heartfelt reading of her children’s book, Marvellous Miles.

The event was part of the Make March Purple campaign—an annual initiative that raises awareness and funds to support people living with epilepsy in Australia. This year’s theme, Purple Heroes, celebrates those who face the challenges of epilepsy every single day: people living with the condition, parents and carers, doctors and neurologists, teachers, and many more. It’s about shining a light on the strength and courage of this incredible community—and Sarah’s story couldn’t have fit the theme more perfectly.

At the heart of Marvellous Miles is a spirited young lion who loves to move and groove his way through the day. But when his body starts to move in ways he didn’t expect, Miles becomes determined to find out what’s going on. What follows is a gentle, empowering tale of discovery, resilience, and understanding.

Miles was inspired by Sarah’s own son, who was diagnosed with epilepsy as a toddler. With lived experience guiding her words, Sarah has crafted a story that doesn’t just inform—it comforts. She’s read Marvellous Miles to her own kids over 70 times, and each reading brings with it the same message: you are not alone.

When we asked Sarah how she came up with the name “Miles” for her book’s bright-eyed hero, she smiled and said it’s about the journey—“the miles travelled.” It’s a fitting tribute, not only to the challenges faced by children with epilepsy, but also to the strength and support of the families and communities walking alongside them.

The idea for the book came about when a teacher at her son’s school asked if there were any books to help explain epilepsy to young children. There weren’t. So, Sarah wrote one. Simple as that—but also, incredibly powerful. Because sometimes, the best way to open up important conversations is with a story.

Sarah hopes Marvellous Miles will become a springboard for those conversations—between parents and kids, between siblings and peers, and within schools and communities. Through Miles’ journey, the book normalises the daily realities of epilepsy: seizures, medication routines, EEGs, and trips to the doctor. It shines a light on something many families live with every day, but often don’t talk about enough.

At Saturday’s event, children listened closely as Sarah brought the pages to life. There were laughs, thoughtful nods, and a real sense of connection. It was storytelling at its best—authentic, inclusive, and full of heart.

As part of Make March Purple, Australians are encouraged to take on a Purple Challenge and become a Purple Hero in their own way—whether it’s by raising awareness, fundraising, or simply standing in solidarity with those affected by epilepsy. All funds raised support vital services, education and training, and research into finding a cure.

If you’d like to get your hands on a copy of Marvellous Miles, you can purchase the book through Epilepsy ACT’s online shop here: myimpact.epilepsyact.org.au/shop/viewitem/marvellous-miles . It is also available from all major book retailers Australia wide.

Moving Through Life With Marvellous Miles: A Storytelling Afternoon with Sarah Watts