Having already run multiple marathons in aid of the charity, Joshua is competing to give back something to the people who helped his family most after his 17-year-old step-son was diagnosed with epilepsy three years ago.
The 38-year-old has just received an Epilepsy Star award from Epilepsy Action, to recognise his fundraising and awareness efforts. Joshua was nominated by his partner Ceri, who describes him as her ‘hero’.
“My son, Ioan, developed epilepsy three years ago when he was only 14,” explained Ceri. At the time, we didn’t know much about epilepsy, so we turned to Epilepsy Action to help us with support and advice.
“Josh decided that he wanted to give back and ensure other families can get the support they need, whilst also raising awareness of the condition.
“Three years ago Josh couldn’t run – now he doesn’t stop! He’s currently completed five runs for Epilepsy Action, including the London Marathon, London Landmarks and Cardiff Half.
“The Wales Ironman will be the biggest physically enduring challenge that Josh has done so far. This includes a 2.4mile swim, 112mile bike ride and ends with a 26.2mile full Marathon.
“Our lives were turned upside down by Ioan’s epilepsy diagnosis. As parents, you never get used to seeing your child have a seizure. Josh is always there for me during these times – he stays calm and holds me, whilst being there for my son. I don’t know what I’d do without him.
“Epilepsy Action helped provide resources and helped upskill us both to be able to feel confident in supporting Ioan. We’ve also seen how the charity has helped others too.
“Like many conditions, epilepsy can come with a stigma attached, and we know this needs to be broken down. That’s why Josh wants to play his part in raising awareness and funds for the charity, so they can keep breaking these barriers and supporting other families.”
Talking about his own fundraising experiences Joshua says:
“We have seen first-hand how epilepsy can impact people’s lives and seen how much Epilepsy Action has been able to help us and other families like ours.
“London Marathon was tough enough and there’s no doubting just how difficult physically and mentally Ironman Wales will be, but it’ll be a team effort and Ceri and our family will support me every step of the way.
“If doing this leads to awareness and support provided to one person or family then it’s worth every second of pain. The stigma needs to end and we will continue supporting the charity to do this through this and further events.”
Chief executive officer at Epilepsy Action, Rebekah Smith says:
“We’re thrilled to give this month’s Star Award to Joshua, who is such a key supporter and fundraiser of ours. His determination and resilience to raise awareness for epilepsy is lovely to see and hopefully, it will inspire others to do the same.
“It’s great to hear that Joshua and his family have been able to use Epilepsy Action’s services, such as our helpline, to support them on their epilepsy journey. Joshua’s donations will make a huge difference and help ensure other families can receive much- needed support, just like he did.”
Epilepsy affects around one in every 100 people in the UK and 79 people are diagnosed every day. Around 36,000 people are living with the condition in Wales.
Epilepsy Action is committed to improving the lives of people with epilepsy, by campaigning for better services and raising awareness of the condition. The charity provides a national network of support groups, with expert advice available on its helpline online or on the phone, 0808 800 5050.
[Lead image: Joshua Granelli]
