Hello and thank you for landing on my fundraising page.

2023 marks 3 years since my devastating brain tumour diagnosis and 2 years since my epilepsy diagnosis. In my case, epilepsy was a result of the brain surgeries I had (to remove the tumour and to treat serious infections). 

Epilepsy has completely changed my life, stealing overnight my independence and imprisoning me in a very dark and painful place. It has been extremely heartbreaking for me to accept all the limitations that this invisible disability has brought to my life and to come to terms with the fact that epilepsy in my case is a life-long condition. Living with epilepsy is traumatising and scary - apart from the unpredictable and life-threatening seizure episodes, I have been struggling with the medication side effects. 

On our first appointment, Dr Karunaratne, Consultant Neurologist at Charing Cross Hospital in London, told me that putting my epilepsy under control is not a race - it is a marathon. I'm running this marathon and will continue running it for the rest of my life. Accepting my disability, being patient with finding the right medication plan, recovering after each seizure, learning to live with the limitations, adjusting and being resilient, challenging myself, overcoming my anxiety and taking risks. Slowing down, making small steps and appreciating the little things. This Summer my biggest achievement (and most vivid memory) has been to swing at the playground with my son (something that many parents take for granted).

Dr Karunaratne has been supporting me along the way - holding my hand since day one, dragging me to the light and helping me to get on my feet. I would have not made any progress if it was not for his care and guidance and I am truly grateful to him and the Epilepsy Department at the hospital. 

This year, turning 41,  I am dedicated to fundraising for the Charing Cross Hospital Epilepsy Department, showing my gratitude for the outstanding NHS healthcare provided to patients with epilepsy like myself. I am starting my fundraising journey with a birthday donation of £410 to the Imperial Health Charity. All funds raised will help the charity fund an epilepsy training fellowship post in Charing Cross Hospital - Epilepsy Department. 

I kindly ask you to consider supporting my fundraiser for Imperial Health Charity and consequently help the thousands of people (including me) living with epilepsy and receiving their treatment in Charing Cross Hospital. Every little amount is welcome and makes a difference. 

Thank you for reading my page! 

Panorea

P.S. In my 42nd journey around the sun starting today, I aim to organise a few more fundraising initiatives to support the Imperial Health Charity - please keep an eye on my social media accounts in the coming months.