This April, I’ll be running my first ever London Marathon for Epilepsy Action, in support of my twin sister, Melissa.

As twins, we’ve shared everything in life, from joint birthdays to (more recently) being each other’s built-in best friend (and definitely worst enemy in our younger years!). But epilepsy is something Mel has had to face on her own since her late teens, and it has shaped so much of her adult life.

From the impact on her social life to the reality of seizures and numerous hospital trips, tests and medications, it’s a daily challenge that nothing can truly prepare you for.

And yet, Mel is just Mel… the most level-headed, strong and determined person, who never lets epilepsy define her. Running a marathon is pretty much her idea of hell (which makes it hilarious that I’m doing it for her), but if my twin can face a lifelong illness with such resilience, then I can certainly face 26 miles of pain.

In the UK, around 1 in 100 people has epilepsy, that’s roughly 600,000 people living with the condition. Every donation will help fund life-changing support, advice and research that makes a real difference to people with epilepsy.

No matter how big or small, your donation will mean the world.

Thank you so much for your support,

Sophie