Internationally acclaimed DJ Norman Cook, aka Fatboy Slim, is to run the Royal Parks Half Marathon on Sunday 6th October to raise money for Young Epilepsy, the national charity dedicated to improving the lives of young people with the condition.
Last year more than 12,000 runners completed the Royal Parks 13.1 mile route, which passes through Hyde Park, Kensington Gardens, St James’s Park and Green Park. This year, for the first time, a 20 strong Young Epilepsy team including Norman Cook will be among them, donning purple running vests and helping to raise more than £6000 to support children and young people with the condition.
A keen runner, Cook completed the inaugural Brighton Marathon in 2010, and last year, at the Brighton Half Marathon, achieved a personal best time of 1 hour and 59 minutes. Cook’s aim is to run the Royal Parks course in under two hours. He explains: “I’m really looking forward to getting out there and running again, the parks in autumn will make for a spectacular backdrop and help to push us all forward. Epilepsy is one of those conditions that is widely misunderstood and not often talked about, yet a staggering one in 200 children is diagnosed with the condition which can have a severe impact on their life and those around them. That’s why I decided to run for Young Epilepsy and help to raise awareness of the condition. It’s fantastic to be part of a team, many of whom have children with the epilepsy and who work to support them.”
Running alongside Cook will be Nancy Hilland, whose son Jack attends Young Epilepsy’s Connect 2 Programme. Nancy explains: “Jack left home when he was 18 years old to stay at Young Epilepsy. He has severe epilepsy and requires 24 hour care, so him leaving home has been a big adjustment for us. Getting involved in running and helping to raise money for Young Epilepsy has given me something to work towards. The support of Young Epilepsy has had a significant impact on Jack, he is like a different person – he’s a more confident and motivated young man now, and it fantastic to see him enjoying life. Running the Royal Parks is my way of giving something back.”
If you’re interested in running for Young Epilepsy, call 01342 832243 or email fundraising@youngepilepsy.org.uk.
