My name is Fintan, and I’ll be running this year’s Belfast Marathon to raise funds for Epilepsy Action NI.

I was diagnosed with epilepsy at three years old. The diagnosis came after I experienced a number of tonic-clonic seizures. These are the typical fit-like seizures that most people associate with epilepsy.

Following my diagnosis, I began to have atonic seizures, or ‘drop attacks’ as they are more commonly known. These seizures can cause people to collapse suddenly. At times, I had over 20 of these seizures in a single day- not good craic. I was to consume a cocktail of medications daily for several years, and the variety of seizures continued, both when asleep and awake.

And now, here I am- haven’t taken medication in nearly 20 years and haven’t had a seizure in 12. I am extremely fortunate to be in this position.

Today, there are around 22,000 people in the North with epilepsy- that’s 1 in 83.

Epilepsy Action NI is an incredible charity that helps to improve the experience and care of individuals and families affected by epilepsy. They provide a peer support service, a dedicated family support service, tailoring support to families affected by epilepsy and deliver online courses to improve understanding and self-management of epilepsy.

I’d really appreciate it if you could contribute to this important charity. Every donation helps to provide life-saving support.

£10 could fund epilepsy training.

£20 could help expand crucial online resources.

£40 could train a Talk and Support leader.

All funds raised will be allocated to NI following the marathon!

Cheers,

Fintan