Rachael Townend from Bromley is taking part in the Marathon Des Sables from 26 March to 6 April, and has already raised over £900 for Epilepsy Action, the UK’s largest member-led epilepsy organisation.
Often described as ‘the toughest foot race on Earth’, the Marathon Des Sables is a seven-day, 151 mile endurance race through the Sahara desert in Northern Africa. Rachael will have to carry all her food and equipment in a rucksack on her back, while running the equivalent of five and a half regular marathons!
Rachael said: “My five-year-old daughter has epilepsy and most of the time I feel pretty helpless. At least this way I am doing something positive and constructive for her, and helping to raise awareness of epilepsy. “
She continued; “This will be a real challenge for me, as it combines sand, extreme heat and camping – none of which I particularly like! I really want to see how far I can push myself and to prove that if you really set your mind to something, you can achieve anything, whoever you are!”
To show your support for Rachael and Epilepsy Action, please visit www.justgiving.com/rachaelsmds and donate online.
The money raised by Rachael will help fund the vital advice and information services provided by the charity. Last year, Epilepsy Action directly helped more than 686,500 people through a range of services, including its advice and information centre, branch network, Epilepsy Helpline freephone 0808 800 5050 and award-winning website, www.epilepsy.org.uk