A South Shields mum, whose son has epilepsy, is preparing to lace up her running shoes to complete the Bupa Great North Run. Jane Payne will take part to raise vital funds for Epilepsy Action, the UK's largest member-led epilepsy organisation.
Jane, 40, will attempt the prestigious 13.1 mile race through Tyneside on Sunday 19 September. Jane has chosen to run for Epilepsy Action to help support the 456,000 people living with epilepsy in the UK. Her son Callum, 17, also has epilepsy.
The Bupa Great North Run is the world's most popular half marathon with over 54,000 runners taking part in 2009. Over £185,000 has been raised from this event for Epilepsy Action with almost 500 runners having taken part on behalf of the charity since 2005.
Jane said: “My son was recently diagnosed with epilepsy. After the diagnosis I found lots of information on the Epilepsy Action website, which was invaluable in helping me come to term with his condition. I completed the Great North Run two years ago and really enjoyed the experience; the next time I did it I knew I wanted to support a charity. Epilepsy Action was the perfect choice as it plays such an important role in raising awareness of epilepsy. Luckily I will have the support of my husband Gary who will also be running.”
“I'm really looking forward to the fantastic atmosphere along the route and the warmth and support of the runners and my friends cheering me on along the way. My husband and I will have just celebrated our 14th wedding anniversary on the 14 September, so hopefully we will be celebrating achieving a good time in the race as well!”
The money raised will help fund the vital advice and information services provided by Epilepsy Action.
Last year alone the organisation directly helped over 688,000 people through a range of services. These include its advice and information centre, branch network, Epilepsy Helpline freephone 0808 800 5050 and award-winning website, www.epilepsy.org.uk
Applications for the Great North Run through Epilepsy Action have now closed, but anyone who has gained a place independently can still run for the charity. For more information contact Michael White on 0113 210 8800 or email events@epilepsy.org.uk.