Doncaster dad completes cross-country '˜ultramarathon' in aid of epilepsy charity

Since being diagnosed with epilepsy in 2014, little Lily Pearson and her family has been supported by the charity, Epilepsy Action.

And in a bid to say thank you to the charity, Lily’s dad, Mick, has taken part in a series of fundraising challenges, the most recent of which saw the 33-year-old run from Cambridge to London in a gruelling 100km trek.

Mick, who completed the ‘ultra marathon’ in just 13.5 hours, said the cross-country fundraiser had been a ‘tough but incredible and unforgettable experience’.

“There were some really difficult moments but they gave me time to think about the last few months’ training and remembering why I was doing it,” said Mick, of Askern.

He added: “Coming into Cambridge and then onto the finish felt amazing but even more so seeing my daughters Lily and Poppy who ran the last few metres with me.”

Mick says Epilepsy Action have played a crucial role in helping Lily, who was diagnosed in 2014, understand her condition through their continued support and information provided on their website.

Speaking earlier this year, he said: “It’s been great for her because if there was ever a question she’d maybe not want to ask us, she’d be able to look it up on their website. It’s been really helpful.”

Lily is one of 50,000 people in Yorkshire and the Humber who are affected by epilepsy - a condition which affects the brain and causes repeated seizures.

Mick has helped to raise over £1,500 for Epilepsy Action, having completed the Bradford and Leeds 10K races as well as the ultra marathon this year. But he has no intention of stopping there, and is set take part in next year’s London Marathon.

He added: “I love running and it’s my way of helping to raise awareness and donations for Epilepsy Action and the work they do.”

Holly Rawlings of Epilepsy Action said: “Mick’s dedication to running and fundraising is incredible.

“We were impressed he completed the Leeds 10K in 42 minutes – just days after he smashed the London to Cambridge challenge! Epilepsy impacts people’s lives in so many ways and every step he takes helps us to ensure we can support even more people affected by the condition.”

To donate, visit www.justgiving.com/Michael-Pearson5