Inspired by the story of Cash, who faced exclusion from a football camp due to his epilepsy, former premiership footballer, Jay Bothroyd, joined us for a day of football skills and coaching at a fun football session in the Easter holidays.
We know that children living with epilepsy can face unnecessary barriers in all aspects of their lives, including sport. We are dedicated to raising awareness and campaigning for change to ensure every child is safe, included and supported to reach their potential. The Jay Bothroyd Premier Football Experience aimed to redress the balance and show that all children should be encouraged and supported to enjoy sport.
On the day of the event, participants gathered on the field, eager to engage in drills and games under the guidance of Jay and the coaching team.
Throughout the day, the children bonded over their love of football and their shared experiences with epilepsy. It was heartwarming to witness friendships forming and confidence growing among the children.
The final game was tense with both teams giving all their energy to winning and taking home the first ever Young Epilepsy football cup! Every child that joined us for the day was also awarded a medal for taking part, and two were celebrated as ‘Players of the Match’.
By providing a supportive space for children with epilepsy to participate in football, we hoped to challenge misconceptions and promote inclusion. Our 'Understand My Epilepsy' campaign is aimed at ensuring children are supported to fully participate in all areas of their lives, including school and sporting activities. No child should be left out because they have epilepsy. The campaign emphasises the importance of education and awareness in creating an inclusive environment where children with epilepsy can thrive.
Thank you to everyone involved in making the event possible, and for all the families who attended – some coming from as far as Wales! Together, we demonstrated that epilepsy does not define a person's abilities or limit their potential, on or off the pitch!
