A Wrexham dad, whose daughter has epilepsy, is preparing to lace up his running shoes to complete the Bupa Great North Run. Andy Shallcross will take part to raise vital funds for Epilepsy Action, the UK's largest member-led epilepsy organisation.
Andy will attempt the prestigious 13.1-mile race through Tyneside on Sunday 20 September to help support the 456,000 people living with epilepsy in the UK.
The Bupa Great North Run is the world's most popular half marathon with over 50,000 runners taking part in 2008. Over £135,000 has been raised from this event for Epilepsy Action. Almost 600 runners have taken part on behalf of the charity since 2005.
Andy said: "My daughter, Francesca, was diagnosed with epilepsy last year. She is a fun little girl who loves life. Epilepsy Action has helped me to understand the condition.
"I've completed the Great North Run five times now, so it's becoming a bit of a habit! I'm asking friends to sponsor me to dress in fancy dress so this year's run might be a bit different! I'm really forward to the fantastic camaraderie and the anticipation of thousands of others with the same short term goal."
Andy is hoping to raise £500. To show your support for Andy and Epilepsy Action, please visit www.justgiving.com/andyshallcross. The money raised by Andy will help fund the vital advice and information services provided by Epilepsy Action.
Last year alone the organisation directly helped over 685,500 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.