53 runners take part in the SUDEP Action London 10K
Fifty three SUDEP Action runners ran the London 10K on 14 July 2013 to raise awareness of the risks associated with Epilepsy. The runners braved the sweltering heat to support SUDEP Action, the only charity in the UK solely dedicated to preventing epilepsy deaths.
SUDEP Action Fundraising and Volunteer Officer Vicky Pudner who was there to cheer on the runners said: “All of our 10K runners did absolutely fantastically – especially on such a hot day. It was great to see everyone wearing the orange T shirts. They really stood out and it made the runners easy to spot during the race! We’re so grateful for all the funds and awareness raised.”
Some runners found strength to keep running in the memory of the person they have lost. Sarah Hirst said: “I feel amazing, emotional as well, especially when you think about what you are doing it for. I got more of a buzz doing this than I did the parachute jump.”
Bereaved parent Tracy Houghton who ran in memory of her son Mason explained that “My son got me through. With the heat, you are so not prepared with the heat.”
Others drew strength from the cheering supporters, Izzy Cohen who finished in 1hour 15 minutes and ten seconds said: “I got a stitch but just kept going. My sister said that when you hit the wall just keep going. I was just focusing on the audience they were just shouting, otherwise I wouldn’t have got through it.”
Izzie Burns who ran in memory of her brother Charlie added “It was just nice when you were running along and you could hear the SUDEP people, it just kept you going and it was an honour to wear the t-shirt.”
Kirstyn Short said she gained support from the cheering supporters and the other SUDEP Action runners: “it was harder than last year due to the sun. I could hear the supporters saying ‘SUDEP SUDEP’. I could see the other runners. That was good.”
Vilius Kvedaras who ran in support of bereaved parent and SUDEP Action supporter Ross Sheridan commented: “I definitely enjoyed it. I am just happy that Ross is raising awareness and that I am a little help for him.”
Damien Robinson enjoyed the run describing it as hot, enjoyable and longer than 10K while Sarah Harris described it as very hot, very hard but good fun all for a good cause.”
Nicola Soulsby said: “Fab, except for a very bad back it’s been really good. Will do it again next year definitely.”
SUDEP Action Fundraising Manager Rachel Groves thanked the runners saying: “We really appreciate everyone’s effort. Following the launch of the Epilepsy Deaths Register, we really need every penny to ensure we are able to research the causes of these tragic deaths.”
