Erin’s epilepsy diagnosis in primary school didn’t just shape her life—it gave her the drive to support others in the epilepsy community. Now, as part of the Youth Voice Network with Young Epilepsy, she’s gearing up to participate in the Setting Purple Sectors hosted by Chris McCarthy, a sim-racing event, and a unique way to raise funds and spread awareness about epilepsy.
I'm really looking forward to working with Chris. I think what he's doing for the motorsport world is very inspiring and it’s very brave to speak up.Erin, member of the Youth Voice Network
What is Setting Purple Sectors?
Setting Purple Sectors is not your typical charity event. It’s a thrilling sim-racing experience that brings together motorsport enthusiasts, gamers and streamers eager to support Young Epilepsy.
Erin is racing on the Young Epilepsy Youth Voice Network team, and along with others will race against some of the biggest drivers, racers and broadcasters in motorsport.
For Erin, participating in Setting Purple Sectors is not only a way to have fun but also a way to raise money for epilepsy, helping to fund crucial services like diagnosis, information and support for young people.
I’ve never met anyone else with epilepsy so it’s exciting to be part of an event where I can connect with others who understand what living with epilepsy is like and also race for a cause that’s so important.
Erin’s Journey to the Racetrack
Erin’s interest in motorsport started through her partner, and while she initially didn’t see herself as a racing fan—especially given that she can’t drive due to her epilepsy—she soon found a love for the sport. “I’ve always had to be cautious with what I do,” Erin says.
I wasn’t allowed on go-karts or bumper cars as a kid. But sim-racing gives me a safe way to enjoy something I’ve grown to love.
Please note: it is important to check that the games you are playing are safe for you in terms of your epilepsy and triggers.
Erin continues, "I would say Charles Leclerc is my favourite driver, as I think he is a great driver just need a little push sometimes. Ironic coming from someone who doesn’t drive, I know! I do think Lando is ‘ the one ‘ to watch out for and I have been enjoying his progress.
Growing Up with Epilepsy
Erin’s journey with epilepsy began in primary school when a teacher noticed she would often ‘blank out’ and ‘daydream,’ leading to a diagnosis of childhood Absence Epilepsy. Despite being assured she would outgrow it by age 14, Erin, now 23, continues to live with epilepsy, which has evolved to include Myoclonic and occasional Tonic-clonic seizures.
Living with epilepsy has not been easy for Erin. She recalls losing friends after her diagnosis and facing significant challenges: “I was a dancer at the time and once I told my friends that I was diagnosed, they told everyone not to be friends with me anymore,” she shares.
Despite these obstacles, Erin has pursued her passions and achieved remarkable milestones, including earning a first-class degree in television production, participating in a BBC reality show, and winning a national pageant.
Challenges and Triumphs
Erin’s determination to live life to the fullest, despite her condition, is evident in her participation in Setting Purple Sectors. “It’s hard if you have epilepsy, especially from a young age to gauge what you can and can’t do and then land on a hobby,” she says. “Sim-racing gives me a safe way to enjoy motorsport.”
Erin’s experience with epilepsy has taught her to be cautious and plan meticulously.
I often find that it is the first thing I think of in the morning and at night. I get really bad health anxiety which can be helpful sometimes but quite debilitating.
Erin says, "Waking up abruptly in the early morning is awful for my epilepsy, so when there is an F1 race on that is really early in the morning, I have to watch on catch up and avoid social media for spoilers!"
