Tot's epilepsy battle inspires family in charity run

Leeds-based Epilepsy Action is holding its tenth Bradford 10k on March 19, and Katie McHale will be taking part for the first time.

The mum from Pudsey will be supporting her son Lucas, two, who was diagnosed with epilepsy just before his first birthday.

After initially experiencing infantile spasms, his epilepsy comes in the form of drop attacks, a sudden loss of muscle control which causes him to fall.

After trying several forms of medication, Lucas’s condition is improving with steroids.

Katie, 22, said: “He’s gone from 30 drop attacks a day to just two, but that’s still a lot of seizures every month.

“He has a slight developmental delay, mostly in his speech, but he’s doing brilliantly and has just started nursery with other toddlers of the same age.”

More than 50,000 people in Yorkshire and the Humber are affected by epilepsy, and the condition impacts on the whole family.

“Epilepsy has played such a huge part in Lucas’s life, and although it is a lot more under control than it previously was, it still shows its ugly face from time to time,” Katie added.

“Lucas doesn’t let it stop him and he continues to fight on every single day.”

Also running for Lucas will be his dad Callum and aunt Sophie.

Katie added: “The Bradford 10k is great opportunity to raise awareness and donations for Epilepsy Action and the work they do. They have been an amazing charity for us and offered so much support throughout the hard times.”

* Since the first Epilepsy Action Bradford 10k in 2008, the event has raised more than £300,000.

Starting and finishing in Centenary Square, the 10k route is fast and flat, suitable both for first-time runners as well as elites looking to achieve a personal best. The charity is hoping that the tenth race will be the biggest and best yet, with over 1,500 people taking part. Entry costs £20, or £18 for runners affiliated to a UK athletics running club.

Everyone who finishes will receive a running T-shirt and a medal.

To sign up, visit epilepsy.org.uk/bradford10k or call the events team on 0113 210 8797 by March 15.