A Kidderminster dad, whose son has epilepsy, is preparing to lace up his running shoes to complete this year’s Virgin London Marathon. Anthony Holland will attempt the challenging 26.2 mile run on Sunday 17 April to raise vital funds for national charity Epilepsy Action. The charity provides advice and support to the 456,000 people with epilepsy in the UK.
Anthony, 45, is taking part in the event as his son Branden, 14, was diagnosed with benign rolandic epilepsy three years ago. Benign rolandic epilepsy is one of the most common types of epilepsy in children. It affects almost one in five of all children who have epilepsy.
Anthony said: “I am extremely proud of my son and how he has dealt with his condition. I've found charities such as Epilepsy Action extremely useful for information and advice. By running the London Marathon, I hope to raise awareness of epilepsy and sponsorship money for a cause that is important to me and my family.
“I'm really looking forward to the atmosphere on this amazing day – the feeling of achievement afterwards will be awesome. It has always been a goal of mine to run in the London Marathon, and now I will be running for a fantastic charity, which will motivate me greatly on the day.”
Anthony hopes to raise £2,000 for Epilepsy Action. To show your support for Anthony and Epilepsy Action, visit www.justgiving.com/antholland The money raised by Anthony will help fund the vital advice and information services provided by the charity.
For more information about taking part in fundraising events for Epilepsy Action, visit www.epilepsy.org.uk/involved
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