My daughter had her first seizure at the age of 5, and was diagnosed with epilepsy when she was 8 years old. The following years were very challenging for her. She had frequent seizures throughout the period where most young people are developing their independence, and it took a long time to find a suitable medication regime. Thanks to the wonderful neurology team in Nottingham she has now been seizure free for many years, although she still has to take regular medication. She is now an adult and works for the NHS.

My family and I are long term supporters of Young Epilepsy. We have first hand experience of how important it is to get support when you have a child with epilepsy. Many children are much more badly affected, and even with current treatments not every child can be seizure free. As well as supporting families and schools, Young Epilepsy are involved in research efforts to try to improve the outlook for children and young people with epilepsy.

I've decided to take on a personal challenge to raise money for this important charity, and so I'm taking part in the London Marathon 2026 to raise money for research, treatment and support for children and young adults living with epilepsy.

Please sponsor me and help create a society in which children and young people with epilepsy can thrive.