At Young Epilepsy, our Youth Voice Network is filled with inspiring individuals like Annie, who are dedicated to raising awareness and making a difference for children and young people with epilepsy. One of the exciting ways Annie is contributing to the cause is by taking part in Setting Purple Sectors, a unique event that combines gaming, streaming, and fundraising. As a part of the Young Epilepsy Team on the night, Annie sat down with us to share her journey, her thoughts on the event, and why Setting Purple Sectors is so important.
Q: Annie, how did you first get involved in Young Epilepsy, and what does being part of the Youth Voice Network mean to you?
Annie: I’ve been connected with Young Epilepsy for a while now, and it’s been such a positive community for me. As someone who lives with epilepsy, I’ve received incredible support from them, so becoming an ambassador was a natural next step. Being part of the Youth Voice Network has given me a chance to share my story, raise awareness, and take part in events like Setting Purple Sectors. I want to show that people with epilepsy can enjoy these experiences, and that we’re not defined by our condition.
Q: Can you tell us what Setting Purple Sectors is, and what made you want to join this event?
Annie: Setting Purple Sectors is a charity event organised by Young Epilepsy to raise money and awareness. On 12 November 15 teams of sim-racers led by professional drivers, broadcasters and YouTubers will battle it out on the track and it’s all steamed live for anyone to watch. It’s a fun way to bring people together to support children with epilepsy, and anyone can join. I love the idea of doing something active while raising funds for such a great cause. Even though I’m not a pro racer, this event is more about participation and showing that we can come together to make a difference. I couldn’t pass up the chance to be part of it!
Q: How do you think this event helps raise awareness about epilepsy?
Annie: Events like this are so important because they get people talking. Epilepsy can sometimes be misunderstood, so Setting Purple Sectors is a great way to highlight the reality of living with the condition. By taking part and sharing my story, I hope to raise awareness and show that we, as individuals with epilepsy, are just as capable as anyone else. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to raise funds that will go directly to supporting children and young people with epilepsy through Young Epilepsy’s initiatives.
Q: How do you feel about sim-racing alongside racing enthusiasts like Chris McCarthy?
Annie: I’m definitely excited, though I’m not a seasoned racer or gamer! But that’s what makes this event so fun—you don’t have to be an expert to join in. Being part of an event with someone like Chris McCarthy and other racing enthusiasts is a bit nerve-wracking, but it’s also a great opportunity to show that people with epilepsy can participate and enjoy these experiences just like anyone else. My goal is to have fun and raise as much awareness as I can.
Q: What do you hope people will take away from Setting Purple Sectors?
Annie: I want people to see that individuals with epilepsy are no different from anyone else. We might face unique challenges, but we’re fearless, determined, and capable. This event isn’t just about motorsports—it’s about community, inclusion, and showing that epilepsy doesn’t limit what we can achieve. I hope people feel inspired to support Young Epilepsy and maybe even get involved in fundraising events like this themselves.
Q: How can others get involved in Setting Purple Sectors or similar fundraising events?
Annie: Getting involved is easy! You can join the live stream, donate to Young Epilepsy, or even spread the word to help raise awareness. Every little bit helps. Whether you’re an avid sim-racer or just want to support an important cause, Setting Purple Sectors is a great way to make a real difference. It’s about raising funds, yes, but it’s also about standing together for children and young people with epilepsy.
