Leeds student to participate in marathon following epilepsy diagnosis

Jay Cushen developed epilepsy in his first year of university due to a brain infection

3 weeks ago

A University of Leeds student is set to participate in a marathon following an epilepsy diagnosis.

International business student, Jay, will be raising money for HOPE for Epilepsy, after developing the condition during his first year.

Originally from Whitegate, Jay will be running in the Leeds Marathon on May 11th, following a serious brain infection in March 2022 that led to him being hospitalised, the Northwich Guardian reports.

Initially, doctors believed he had a minor viral infection and were not concerned, but his bacterial infection worsened in severity. He spent two months in hospital when he was 18.

Following surgery, which involved the removal of a portion of his skull, Jay began to experience seizures.

The 19-year-old has continued to have seizures over the past three years as a result of the trauma, which triggered the onset of epilepsy.

The award-winning charity Jay is fundraising for is dedicated to supporting the families of hundreds of thousands of individuals living with epilepsy across the UK.

Speaking about his diagnosis, Jay said: “I am a lot more aware of what I do, for example, drinking.”

“At Christmas my family was drinking but I was on the mocktails. I have a lot of anxiety because I have a slight sensation and I am thinking, ‘Oh I do not want to push myself too much in case it is a seizure,'” he added.

Despite these challenges, Jay has successfully completed his undergraduate degree in natural sciences and is currently pursuing a Master’s in international business.

While Jay describes himself as a strong swimmer with national-level experience, he admitted he isn’t a regular runner.

However, the significance of the day, which will also honour Leeds Rhinos legend Rob Burrow, is a powerful motivator.