Alex Staniforth

On the 6th of July 2011, at the age of 16, I became the youngest person in history to complete the National 3 Peaks Challenge solo.

This involved climbing the UK's highest 3 mountains, Ben Nevis, Scafell Pike and Snowdon in under 24 hours non stop, with the 24 miles of walking and 500 miles of driving all included in the time. I did it in 21 hours 57 mins. I faced sleep deprivation, aching knees, exhaustion and nausea but I never gave up despite feeling awful yet exhilarated.

On the mountains, I faced snow, gusting winds, rain and thick cloud with dreadful visibility, alone- knowing there were 3000ft cliff drops to my left at some point. But I made it.

My epilepsy was mild and controlled quickly with medication, but from a young age led to phobias, lack of self confidence, panic attacks, a speech problem and eventually depression. From being too scared to leave the house, to being alone on the country's biggest mountains, and I am now a keen runner, mountain biker, qualified scuba diver and paraglider.

In July I'm climbing Europe's highest peak, Mont Blanc, and in August I'm cycling from John O'Groats to Land's End, 960 miles, in 11 days to raise money for Epilepsy Action and Cancer Research UK.

In May I'm running with the Olympic Torch too... I'll be holding that flame high and proud, to inspire all of you that all obstacles can be overcome, impossible is nothing and epilepsy shouldn't get in your way in your goals to live your dreams.

Keep believing, keep achieving!

Alex