Summer’s here, and that means school trips, outdoor challenges, and unforgettable memories with your mates. But what if you’re living with epilepsy? Can you still take part in the action?
Zac’s story proves the answer is a massive YES.
From the South to the Highlands: The Journey Begins
Zac, a Year 9 student, was buzzing when he was picked to represent his school in an international Adventure Race—a weekend of intense outdoor challenges hosted at a school in the Scottish Highlands. Teams from across the UK and Europe came together to compete in everything from mountain runs to open water swims.
The journey was no joke—two days of travel, camping in Keswick, and cooking their own meals. But Zac was ready.
I was determined to show everyone I was just as capable as anyone else.
The Challenges: Grit, Teamwork, and a Lot of Mud
Over 36 hours, Zac and his team tackled:
- Timed runs along coastal trails and railway lines
- Climbing cliffs for points (Zac smashed both the easy and hard routes!)
- The Tyrolean river challenge, where teamwork meant the difference between success and a cold dunk
- A 90-minute cross-country relay mixing running and mountain biking—Zac’s favourite
- Open water swimming in the freezing North Sea (yes, really!)
- Night orienteering with just a map, compass, and torch
- A 10km mountain challenge up Ben Rinnes to finish it all off
It was hard, relentless, and mentally challenging. But when I crossed the finish line, I felt proud of myself and my team.
Managing Epilepsy on the Move
Travelling with epilepsy can feel daunting, especially when you’re far from home. But Zac’s school had his back. Teachers supported him with his medication, followed his Individual Healthcare Plan, and helped educate his teammates about what to do if he had a seizure.
I didn’t feel excluded or treated differently. Instead, I felt supported and understood.
Even though he didn’t have a seizure during the trip, Zac was open about the fear that came with the “what ifs.” His friends asked questions, and he welcomed them.
Open discussion helps remove the stigma.
What Zac Learned (Besides How to Pitch a Tent)
Zac came back with more than just muddy trainers and a medal-worthy story. He learned how to:
- Be independent (tent pitching and stove lighting included!)
- Work as part of a team
- Speak up about his needs
- Push past fear and prove what’s possible
Zac’s Advice to Other Young People with Epilepsy
Speak up and show up. Tell your teachers you want to be involved. Help them understand why you’re safe to take part. And then show them what you can do.
Zac knows it’s not always fair that young people with health conditions have to go the extra mile—but believes that by doing so, they can change minds and open doors for others.
Final Thoughts
Zac’s story is a reminder that epilepsy doesn’t have to hold you back from adventure. With the right support, preparation, and a bit of courage, you can take on the world—one mountain (or muddy trail) at a time.
