This October, I’m joining hundreds of people taking on the 62-Mile Challenge to raise money and awareness for Epilepsy Action — a charity that is now incredibly close to my heart.

I’ve decided to complete my 62 miles within just 10 days during October, pushing myself physically while raising as much money as possible for a cause that means more to me than I can put into words.

Last October, on Monday 27th, I received a phone call from a paramedic telling me that my dad, James John Kerry, had suffered a severe epileptic seizure and had lost consciousness.

My dad had lived with epilepsy for many years and frequently suffered from daily seizures, although he had managed to get them under control to an extent. As I made my way to the hospital, I had no idea what to expect. I thought it would be like so many other visits — that I would see my dad, and eventually we would leave together and I would take him home.

Sadly, this time was different.

After the emergency services and hospital staff did everything they could, Dad was admitted to intensive care. He spent the rest of the week on machines while doctors carried out multiple tests to determine whether there was any brain activity.

That entire week was spent with my three siblings and the people who loved and cared for my dad, desperately trying to remain hopeful while, deep down, preparing ourselves to say goodbye.

It was the most traumatic experience I have ever endured. Like so many people, I was not ready to say goodbye to a parent.

My dad was just 49 years old. He had so much life still ahead of him. He never got the opportunity to meet his most recent grandchild, and there are now countless special people, moments and memories that he will never get to experience.

That is why this challenge means so much to me.

Epilepsy can affect every part of a person's life, and seizures can have devastating consequences. There are children, young people and adults living every day with the uncertainty and fear that epilepsy can bring. For people who live alone, having a seizure when nobody is there can be particularly dangerous.

By taking on these 62 miles, I want to help raise awareness and support the work of Epilepsy Action, so that fewer people and families have to face the challenges of epilepsy alone.

If you’re able to donate, no matter how small the amount, it would mean so much to me and my family. If you can’t donate, simply sharing this post and helping spread awareness would also mean a lot.

I’m doing these 62 miles for my dad, James. ❤️

Thank you for taking the time to read my story, and thank you to everyone who supports me throughout the challenge.

62 miles. 10 days. One very personal reason.

🕊️💜