Highland-based coach company, D&E Coaches, is proudly backing its transport manager, Gayle McEwan, as she gears up to take on the gruelling 26.2-mile London Marathon on April 27, in support of the Epilepsy Society – a cause deeply personal to her and her family.
In April 2023, Gayle’s husband, Gareth – a fellow D&E Coaches employee – experienced his first seizure, an incident that led to the loss of his coach driving licence for five years.
However, after a year of hope and recovery, tragedy struck again when Gareth suffered a second, unexplained seizure in July 2024. This led to a diagnosis of epilepsy and the life-changing news that he would lose his PCV licence for ten years.
Gayle shared: “For me, this marathon isn’t just a personal milestone. It’s a chance to raise awareness and funds for the Epilepsy Society, which has been an incredible support to our family over the past couple of years.”
“Epilepsy is something that affects real people every day, and we need more understanding, more information, and more support available for those facing a diagnosis. I hope that by sharing our story and taking on this challenge, I can help others going through similar struggles and shine a light on a cause that means so much to us.”
Epilepsy affects around 630,000 people in the UK – that’s approximately one in every 100. The Epilepsy Society is the UK’s leading provider of epilepsy services, working to improve diagnosis, treatment, and care through world-leading research, education, and specialist support.
“The support I’ve received in getting here has been incredible,” continued Gayle. “The D&E team has cheered me on every step of the way, and I’ve had amazing encouragement from family and friends too. But a huge thank you has to go to the Jog Scotland Inverness team.
“Their advice, guidance, and unwavering support has helped me build my fitness at my own pace, without pressure – and that’s made all the difference.”
JogScotland is a nationwide recreational running network, backed by scottishathletics, and open to people of all abilities, shapes and sizes aged 18 and over. The Inverness group has been active for over ten years and now welcomes around 200 members, from complete beginners to those returning to fitness. The friendly and inclusive group meets on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, and is led by a team of 11 registered volunteer leaders who provide support, motivation and guidance for every runner, no matter their pace or goal.
Suzanne Falconer, one of the registered leaders at Jog Scotland Inverness, said: “At Jog Scotland Inverness, we’re incredibly proud of every runner, whether they’re taking their first steps into fitness or chasing a marathon goal.
“The London Marathon is a standout moment in any runner’s calendar, and we’re sending all our support to Gayle and everyone taking part. It’s a huge achievement to even reach the start line, and we know Gayle will do us proud.”
To support Gayle’s London Marathon challenge and donate to her fundraising efforts, visit her official JustGiving page. Every contribution will help provide vital support, raise awareness, and fund life-changing research for those living with epilepsy.
