Epilepsy: Epsom man runs 27 half marathons in memory of sister
Abbie was three months away from her 30th birthday when she died, just six weeks after receiving an epilepsy diagnosis.Mr Ahearn said of his sister: "She was so much fun to be around, always making jokes and playing pranks. "She brightened any room she walked into with her smile and is sorely missed by everyone who knew and loved her."He has chosen to run 27 half marathons to mark each minute Abbie's brain was without oxygen while paramedics tried to revive her.
His completed runs include London Bridge and Carrington Water half-marathons, as well as running on his own in his local park. He said: "The solo runs were the toughest emotionally, as it can be hard to stay focussed and motivated, and of course sometimes I was thinking about Abbie."
Three people die from epilepsy-related causes every day, according to Epilepsy Action. The charity's fundraising director Philippa Cartwright said: "All of us at the charity are in complete awe of Barry's incredible fundraiser. "His determination and resilience is so inspiring and the money raised in Abbie's memory will help so many people."
If you have been affected by any of the issues in this article and would like information or support, you can visit the BBC Action Line pages.
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Daily Record
05-07-2025
- Daily Record
Scots student devastated after brain tumour returned during exams
Abbie Coull was in her second year studying to be a lawyer when she received the heartbreaking news. A young Scots woman who battled a brain tumour while studying for a law degree has defied the odds to graduate with distinction. Abbie Coull, 23, from Aberdeenshire, has completed her Diploma in Professional Legal Practice at the University of Aberdeen – the final step in her journey to becoming a qualified solicitor - despote her health battles. Her determination was tested just a year into her law studies at Robert Gordon University when she received the devastating news that a benign brain tumour, previously removed, had returned. 'I was only 17 when I was diagnosed with a tumour on the hearing and balance nerve just outside the brain,' Abbie explained. 'In 2021, during my second year at university, I found out it was growing back. I had to undergo radiation therapy at the same time as sitting my exams.' Despite undergoing intense treatment – and on three occasions completing exams on the very same day she received radiation – Abbie refused to give up on her goals, reports Aberdeen Live. 'I struggled with fatigue and side effects for a long time, but I was determined to keep going,' she said. Her hard work paid off, graduating with a first-class law degree before moving on to the University of Aberdeen to complete her diploma – a course she has now finished with distinction. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Alongside her tumour battle, Abbie has also faced other serious health challenges. At the age of 12, she underwent major spinal fusion surgery to correct scoliosis, which meant missing school and giving up sports for two years. 'I've learned that things can and do get better,' she said. 'I knew I'd regret it if I didn't try my best, no matter how tough things got.' Abbie credits her family, university support services, and her own strong will for helping her through. 'My parents took time off work to drive me to and from radiation appointments in Edinburgh. I'd study or sleep in the car – their support meant everything. University counsellors were also a great help.' She also found that continuing with her studies helped her mentally. 'Knowing it would take three years to find out if the radiation had worked was incredibly hard. But focusing on my degree helped me stay positive – it was a great distraction.' Now in remission and with her health stable, Abbie is about to begin her first legal role at a local law firm this summer. 'The radiation did what it was supposed to do – the tumour has stopped growing. I still get an annual MRI scan, and while I always get a little nervous, the results have remained good.' Reflecting on her time in Aberdeen, Abbie said: 'The highlight has definitely been the people. From my first day, the atmosphere on campus was amazing – there was such a buzz.' As she prepares to begin life as a solicitor, Abbie has a message for others facing similar battles. 'Reach out and don't be afraid to ask for help. You don't have to go through tough times alone. I hope my story shows that even when life throws challenges at you, it's possible to push through and achieve your dreams.'
BBC News
04-07-2025
- BBC News
Ketamine helped me escape my negative thoughts - then nearly killed me
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BBC News
25-06-2025
- BBC News
Nantwich builder to push wheelbarrow across Britain for charity
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