79-year-old Herstmonceux fundraiser takes on 200-mile challenge for Young Epilepsy

Adrian May is going the extra mile this October to support young people living with epilepsy. Despite having had both hips replaced, the 79-year-old has set himself a target of walking 200 miles and has already raised more than £1,300 for the charity.

A 79-year-old fundraiser from Herstmonceux is showing remarkable determination this October as he takes on a challenge to walk 100 miles in a month for Young Epilepsy, with the ambitious personal goal of doubling that distance to 200 miles.

Adrian May has already raised more than £1,300 and is currently sitting fourth on the charity’s national fundraising leaderboard, among 623 fundraisers taking part across the country.

Young Epilepsy highlights the profound impact the condition can have on young people, describing how the unpredictability of seizures can leave children feeling frightened, isolated and unable to feel safe in their everyday lives. The physical and emotional toll can affect their mental health, wellbeing and opportunities to enjoy the same experiences as their peers.

The charity aims to change this by providing support to children and young people affected by epilepsy, helping them navigate the challenges of living with the condition.

For Adrian, the cause is particularly close to home. His eldest granddaughter developed epilepsy as a result of a brain tumour, which was successfully removed by surgeons at King’s College Hospital.

His granddaughter has recently completed three years of study at Norland College and has now started her first job as a nanny. She has been fortunate to benefit from successful treatment and the dedication of medical professionals. However, Adrian recognises that many other children and young people continue to live with epilepsy throughout their lives and need ongoing support.

Speaking about his motivation, Adrian said:

“My eldest granddaughter suffered with epilepsy, which was caused by a brain tumour. Thankfully, it was successfully removed by the brilliant surgeons at King’s College Hospital.

“She has been very lucky, thanks to the efforts of so many people, but there are so many others who suffer for a lifetime and need our help. That is why I wanted to take on this challenge for Young Epilepsy.

“I originally took on the 100-mile challenge for October, but I intend to do 200 miles. I am 79 this month and have had both hips replaced, but I am determined to give it my best shot!”

This is not Adrian’s first fundraising effort for Young Epilepsy. He has previously supported the charity through garden sales and is now hoping his latest challenge will raise further awareness of epilepsy and generate vital funds to help young people affected by the condition.

Adrian’s commitment to the challenge has been unwavering, with him heading out for a walk every morning, even in torrential rain. Whatever the weather brings, he remains determined to keep going and reach his ambitious 200-mile target, demonstrating his dedication to raising as much money as possible for Young Epilepsy.

To keep track of his progress, Adrian is recording his steps on his iPhone, ensuring that his mileage is accurately monitored throughout the challenge. He also intends to provide regular updates for everyone following his progress.

His determination demonstrates that age and physical challenges need not stand in the way of making a difference. With his fundraising already placing him among the charity’s leading supporters nationwide, Adrian hopes to encourage even more people to contribute to this important cause.

How to support Adrian

Anyone wishing to support Adrian’s challenge can donate directly through his Young Epilepsy fundraising page:

Donate here: https://100milesinoctober.youngepilepsy.org.uk/users/adrian-may

Every donation, whatever its size, can help Young Epilepsy continue its work supporting children and young people living with epilepsy.