Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.
I am running the running the Great Scottish Half Marathon in aid of the Scottish Epilepsy Initiative and would really appreciate your support to get me motivated, fit and ultimately to the finish line!
I am raising money for the Scottish Epilepsy Initiative's VAlentine Appeal. This appeal is specifically to raise money to support teenagers with the disease.
The ProblemThere are an estimated 8550 children and teenagers with epilepsy in Scotland. The needs of young people are currently somewhat under-represented within the epilepsy community. While their medical issues are being addressed by the NHS, there is a real need for emotional and social support. Teenagers with epilepsy may experience significant day to day problems that can prevent them from living ordinary lives. In particular, the stigma attached to the diagnosis can be almost as debilitating as the disorder itself.
Social situations that young people encounter daily, such as joining a local football team, going out on a date and attending a concert, can become embarrassing occasions when he or she experiences a seizure. Even the fear of having one can put the teenager off going out at all. Young people face a complex range of issues that may not be easily discussed with their peers or families. Significant milestones may seem unachievable in the face of the challenges that epilepsy brings and the family overprotection that often accompanies the diagnosis.What can we do?Scottish Epilepsy Initiative was founded in 2003 by a group of doctors and scientists. Our aim is to help people in Scotland with epilepsy. Our work has identified the particular needs of young people with the condition. We plan to help improve their social skills thereby encouraging them to overcome feelings of isolation, addressing the stigma that accompanies the diagnosis, and stimulating healthy interaction with their peers.
What we are going to do for young people with epilepsy in ScotlandThe Valentine Appeal aims to raise £145,000 to provide a range of services that will significantly enhance the lives of young people with epilepsy in Scotland.TEA RoomThe Teenage Epilepsy Agenda (TEA) Room is an innovative online forum for young people to interact with their peers, gain support and share their experiences of epilepsy in a safe and supportive environment.
To join the forum sign up today at www.thetearoom.org.ukEquipment FundWe will provide IT equipment for young people to allow them to access the TEA Room. To apply to this fund download the application form from the "How we can help you" page.
Field WorkerScottish Epilepsy Initative have employed Scotland's first field worker to work specifically with young people with epilepsy. Using the TEA Room as a platform, the field worker interacts with teenagers to discuss issues that affect their everyday life.Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving – they’ll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they’ll send your money directly to the charity and make sure Gift Aid is reclaimed on every eligible donation by a UK taxpayer. So it’s the most efficient way to donate - I raise more, whilst saving time and cutting costs for the charity.
So please dig deep and donate now.
