Zac’s Great Big Challenge 2026: A Journey for Change
Since being diagnosed with epilepsy at eight years old in January 2020, Zac has turned challenge into purpose - achieving remarkable feats while raising vital funds for Young Epilepsy and shining a spotlight on the condition.
In 2026, Zac will take on an extraordinary challenge. Starting from home in Surrey, he begins an epic journey: Running when he can and walking when he must, all the way to Manchester United.
BUT reaching Manchester is only half the challenge! From there, Zac will cycle every mile back home to Surrey.
Support Zac on his incredible 500 MILE journey - every step and every donation helps support children and young people like Zac and make a real difference.
Learn more about Zac's story here.
The difference your money could make
Each donation makes a real difference, right from the moment it’s given. Learn where your money could go and how it can support children and young people with epilepsy.
£25
Will provide one hour of support with a Youth Support Coordinator to help a child cope with their anxiety and fears about epilepsy
£50
Will provide a group session for six children or young people with epilepsy, helping them to better understand their condition and feel less isolated.
£150
Would provide epilepsy awareness training for school staff to ensure their students with epilepsy are safe and included.
£500
Can provide expert advice to develop our online resources for teaching professionals, improving epilepsy awareness and support in schools.
£1,000
Would support our vital genetics research to understand what causes a child's epilepsy and the longer-term impact on their physical and mental wellbeing.
£25k
Could fund the online professionals training platform for a year, helping teachers to better include and support young people with epilepsy at school.
The difference your money could make
£25
will provide one hour of support with a Youth Support Coordinator to help a child cope with their anxiety and fears about epilepsy
£50
Will provide a group session for six children or young people with epilepsy, helping them to better understand their condition and feel less isolated.
£150
would provide epilepsy awareness training for school staff to ensure their students with epilepsy are safe and included.
£500
Can provide expert advice to develop our online resources for teaching professionals, improving epilepsy awareness and support in schools.
£1,000
would support our vital genetics research to understand what causes a child's epilepsy and the longer-term impact on their physical and mental wellbeing.
£25k
could fund the online professionals training platform for a year, helping teachers to better include and support young people with epilepsy at school.
Nearly every hour another child or young person is diagnosed with epilepsy.
Young Epilepsy was there for our family from the very beginning, when we were first coming to terms with Zac’s diagnosis. They helped us understand what epilepsy means day to day and how to move forward with confidence.
Today, Zac is part of a community where he feels understood and less alone as he grows up. As part of the Youth Voice Network, Zac uses his experience to speak up and help other young people with epilepsy.
Across the UK, Young Epilepsy support children and young people like Zac. They also run St Piers School and College, where young people with complex needs and disabilities are supported to thrive.
Zac isn’t a strong cyclist… not yet. But he’s determined, and he’s brave. This challenge is his way of proving that epilepsy does not define what he can achieve.
It’s a huge undertaking, and every bit of support matters. Each donation helps make sure other children and families get the same support we did, when they need it most.
Young Epilepsy’s Youth Voice Network and students from St Piers College are also taking on their own challenges alongside Zac. If you can, please support them too.
YVN member and want to get involved?
St Piers student who wants to get involved?
Inspired to undertake your own challenge? Visit https://www.youngepilepsy.org.uk/get-involved
Our Supporters
Epilepsy can be one of the most frightening and isolating conditions a child can experience. Young Epilepsy is dedicated to improving research, treatment and direct support. You can help transform young lives by fundraising or donating today. Together we create possible.
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