A Hamsey Green man, whose daughter has epilepsy, is preparing to lace up his running shoes to complete the Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon. Paul Weeks will take part in aid of Epilepsy Action, the UK’s largest member-led epilepsy organisation.
Paul, 39, will run 13.1 miles through central London on Sunday 9 October on his 40th birthday to help support the 456,000 people with epilepsy in the UK. Paul has chosen to take part for Epilepsy Action as one of his daughters, 12year-old Danielle, has epilepsy.
Starting and finishing in Hyde Park, 12,500 runners will wind their way through the stunning landscapes of St James’s Park, Green Park and Kensington Gardens. Runners and spectators will have the opportunity to experience close-up views of the capital’s most iconic landmarks including Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament.
Paul said: “I’m 40 on the day of the event and rather than all the fuss that comes with a 0 birthday, I decided to use the occasion to do something constructive.
“I have chosen to support Epilepsy Action, a charity close to my heart, as my beautiful daughter Danielle has this difficult and very misunderstood condition.
My aim is to try and raise as much awareness and funds for this great charity as possible and give Danielle a sign of love and support she can keep with her forever. I’ve got five mates who have ‘volunteered’ to accompany me so it should be a great day and include a significant post run ‘rehydration’ session!”
Paul hopes to raise £1,000 for Epilepsy Action. To show your support for Paul and Epilepsy Action, visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/weeksy. The money raised will help fund the vital advice and information services provided by the charity.
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Epilepsy affects one in every 131 people in the UK alone and 75 people are diagnosed with the condition every day. Last year Epilepsy Action directly helped over 845,000 people through a range of services, including its Epilepsy Helpline freephone 0808 800 5050, branch network, specialist nurse scheme and award-winning website, www.epilepsy.org.uk