Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page. My aim is to raise at least £2,850 for the Epilepsy Society through a variety of different events, ending with a 5-day trek to the ancient ruins of Machu Picchu.

For the first few years of my life, I suffered from a rare form of infantile epilepsy called West Syndrome, with seizures known as salaam attacks or jackknife attacks - it made life very difficult. Not just for me, but for my family too, particularly my parents. I was constantly in hospital and was also on regular drugs to try and help. Because of this unfortunate start to my life, I made an effort to do some research into epilepsy and was able to appreciate the fact that it's more than just your everyday condition.

There are around 40 different types of epileptic seizures, and in the UK alone, around 600,000 people suffer from the condition, with an average of 80 people being diagnosed with it every single day. Epilepsy is a serious condition that can have a great impact on people's lives, and charities like the Epilepsy Society need our support to make life better for those who suffer. 

Click here to find out more about the Epilepsy Society: 

http://www.epilepsysociety.org.uk/

Over the next year I will be taking part in a variety of different fundraising events, finishing in August 2013 when I will fly to Peru - first to Lima, and then on to the city of Cusco at 3,400m AOD. After a day of getting used to the climate and hoping that the altitude sickess stays away, I will spend five days trekking to the amazing Inca settlement of Machu Picchu, taking me up to nearly 4,500m (15,000ft) above sea level. It will be a big physical challenge, but one that I am determined to pull off for the sake of all those who suffer from epilepsy. 

I would really appreciate any donations you are able to give - as big or as small as you want. Just £3 can ensure that free epilepsy information can be distributed to those who need it, while £10 can guarantee support and advice for someone in need from a trained helpline operator. Higher sums of money will support epilepsy sufferers in even bigger and better ways, including the running of awareness programs in schools to change attitudes and separate facts and myths about epilepsy.

Gift Aid can be claimed on every eligible donation you make - this means that more money is given to the charity at no extra cost to you. It’s the most efficient way to donate, raising more money in less time than I otherwise would.

Thanks for taking the time to read this - please feel free to make a donation to help me reach my target.

Richard Francis