A CARING sister took on Tokyo Marathon to raise awareness of epilepsy after doctors told her brother the aftermath of his seizures may feel like he has ran one.
Emma Ledward, from Runcorn, was one of the lucky thousands of applicants to be selected for a place in the Marathon which went ahead on March 1.
She joined 39,000 runners at the starting line in Tokyo, representing her chosen charity, Epilepsy Society.
Speaking on what compelled her to raise money for the charity, she said: "Doctors often compare the aftermath of a seizure to the exhaustion of running a marathon, and in many cases, it’s even worse.
"Early 2025, I ran the Manchester Marathon. I chose to push my body to its limits, and yes, it hurt, a lot, but at the end of it I got a medal, and a sense of achievement.
"My brother never gets that choice. His body puts him through that pain without warning, and without reward."
Emma's younger brother Thomas was diagnosed with the condition at the age of eight, but for 11 years experienced no seizures until recently.
Mum to the pair, Louise Ledward explained: "Recently he started having full on clonic seizures again and again, as a family we have rallied around him.
"We we’re all at the hospital after getting Thomas checked out by the A&E staff in Warrington Hospital when Emma heard the doctor say, ‘Thomas as your older now you will feel like you have run a marathon’. These words stayed with Emma."
Just two days before race day Emma came down with an illness, Louise told.
"She was disappointed with the result," the mum-of-three said. "She took a bad turn after the race but thankfully she is starting to feel better now and the realisation is now sinking in that she has her first world star.
"Tokyo was the hardest run she has ever done and very nearly quit before the half way point."
Reiterating why she chose to fundraise for Epilepsy Society, Emma added: "Epilepsy is so much more than just seizures.
"There are so many variations and side affects which people don’t realise. Unfortunately, Tom has been experiencing seizures more frequently and around people who are not aware of this.
"This charity, Epilepsy Society, not only funds research but offers support to those with Epilepsy, and their families.
"They have helped us as a family understand Tom’s condition at every stage through his life.
"Any amount of donation would be greatly appreciated. However, I know money is tight at the moment which is why I am encouraging you to spread awareness of epilepsy and more importantly, what to do."
Emma has surpassed her fundraising goal, aiming to raise £500 and currently standing at a £1,300 total.
If you wish to donate or learn more about her brothers story, visit the funding page here.
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