Why I’m Raising Money

Epilepsy is a common health condition, yet so many people still misunderstand it. Most people think of flashing lights and falling over. They don’t see the unpredictability. The hospital stays. The medication side effects. The fear. The very real risk to life.

Epilepsy Action is creating a world without limits for everyone affected by epilepsy — connecting people, providing trusted support and information, and challenging the prejudice and barriers that stop people living their best lives.

Epilepsy says stop. We say go.

I was diagnosed in 2019. Overnight, my life changed. I lost independence, work opportunities, confidence — and at times, I lost belief in myself. I remember wishing I could see someone out there living boldly with epilepsy. Someone proving that a diagnosis didn’t mean the end.

This year, I’m stepping onto the Miss Great Britain Surrey stage — not just in a gown, but with a purpose.

Pageants are about confidence, visibility and platform. I’m using that platform to raise money, awareness and understanding for epilepsy. To educate people. To challenge stigma. To show that living with a neurological condition does not mean shrinking yourself.

After nearly losing my life to seizures, standing on a stage feels less frightening than staying silent.

Through my advocating with illustration, speaking at National Doodle Day, and now working directly alongside Epilepsy Action, I’ve realised that my story isn’t just mine — it represents thousands of people navigating epilepsy every single day.

I’m putting myself in a vulnerable position publicly because I would have needed someone like that when I was first diagnosed.

This isn’t about a crown.

It’s about what that crown represents — visibility.

Visibility for people living with epilepsy.

Visibility for the realities behind the diagnosis.

Visibility for those who feel limited, silenced or misunderstood.

It’s about turning epilepsy into empowerment.

It’s about raising money for support that saves lives.

It’s about helping create a world without limits.

If you can donate, share, or simply take a moment to learn more — you’re helping change the narrative.

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