Alison Jackson

For almost 30 years Alison Jackson has been part of the Epilepsy Action story. Alison experienced stigma and a general lack of epilepsy awareness in her own community and in general. This prompted her to get involved with Epilepsy Action’s work to try to make a difference. In 1983 Alison began volunteering for Epilepsy Action’s Pershore Group, providing advice, information, event support and, more importantly, someone for people to talk to. Many people in the area benefited from the time Alison gave.

"I know I’m making a difference by raising awareness"

In 2006 Alison decided to get even more involved and began visiting schools, charities and social care homes to talk to about living with epilepsy. She gave talks about where to get advice and support and basic first aid following seizure. Alison enjoyed her volunteering: “I’ve met some really interesting and lovely people. What I found really rewarding was when a family came to me afterwards or telephoned me and I was able to give them one to one support and reassurance. Everyone I meet says how much they enjoy my talks and how much they learn, so I know I’m making a difference by raising awareness among so many people.” 

"I had made such an impact"

Alison recalled one particular session she held at a local Rotary club: “During the session I had a seizure in front of everyone. Following the seizure, a lady from the club came over to me and gave me a big hug and said ‘thank you’. I said ‘what for?’ And the lady replied ‘because you showed us exactly what it is like to have epilepsy.’ I felt so good about myself and that I had made such an impact and received such a warm and supportive reception.

"Sometimes I still feel stigma… but people are much better informed now"

“Sometimes I still feel there is still stigma but I find people in my area much more able to talk about epilepsy and about me having it. They are much better informed now,” said Alison.

“Epilepsy Action provided me with lots of information to take with me, including leaflets to give out and a DVD to watch. By being involved with the charity I’ve been able to develop new skills and get inolved in all sorts of activities. I’m a member of Epilepsy Action too and I’ve also benefited from resources and information they have provided me with, such as Epilepsy Today magazine and the seizure diary.

"it’s important to me that Epilepsy Action continues to help people with epilepsy"

“Without all of these things, my life may have been very different. I may not have had the same opportunities and been able to help so many people. It’s really important to me that Epilepsy Action is able to continue to help people with epilepsy. And, that they can continue to campaign and raise awareness of the issues people with epilepsy face on a daily basis.

"will not face some of the barriers and stigma I have experienced"

This is why I have decided to put a gift in my will and leave a legacy to Epilepsy Action. I want it to contribute to helping other people with epilepsy. I hope that by supporting Epilepsy Action in this way future generations will not face some of the barriers and stigma I have experienced.”

Alison Jackson, Pershore