A Bradford man, whose niece has epilepsy, is preparing to lace up his running shoes to complete the Bupa Great North Run. Richard Sykes will take part in aid of Epilepsy Action, the UK’s largest member-led epilepsy organisation.
Richard Sykes, who lives in Clayton, will attempt the prestigious 13.1 miles through Tyneside on Sunday 18 September to help support the 456,000 people with epilepsy in the UK. Richard has chosen to take part for Epilepsy Action because his youngest niece, Molly, who will be three by the time of the run, has epilepsy.
The Bupa Great North Run is the world’s most popular half marathon with over 54,000 runners taking part each year. Over 700 runners have taken part on behalf of Epilepsy Action since 2005.
Richard, 35, said: “My niece has epilepsy, so I want to do something to raise awareness of the condition and raise funds for a good cause. I’ve run the Great North Run before and it’s a very well-supported event, so I’m looking forward to taking on the challenge again this year.”
Richard hopes to raise £250 for Epilepsy Action. The money raised will help fund the vital advice and information services provided by the charity.
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.
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