Andrew’s story inspires the stars

Andrew, contacted the National Taekwondo Centre in Manchester as part of the charity Epilepsy Action’s Purple Day.

Normally, the centre is ‘out-of-bounds’ to the public...but they were happy to make an exception for Andrew who is a massive Taekwondo enthusiast.

He was invited to tour the facility and talk about his experiences to the athletes and coaches.

Andrew (44) described the visit as ‘brilliant’ and added: “It was a once in a lifetime experience.

“I had a guided tour of all the facilities and had a chance to talk to everyone.

“It was fantastic watching the training.

“I certainly wouldn’t fancy being on the wrong end of one of their kicks!”

Andrew also had the chance to meet Paralympic hopefuls.

He said: “I told them about my life - how I was bullied at school because of epilepsy and how Taekwondo has transformed my life.

“I got a really good reception.” It’s over 40 years since Andrew was first diagnosed with the condition when he was just three.

He explained: “Back in the eighties, not much was known about epilepsy.

“People didn’t really know how to support anyone with the condition back then - not even doctors.

“It was difficult for my parents and staff at my school to offer help and guidance.

“All the headteacher could do was suggest I wear a cycle helmet in case of a seizure - which hardly made things easier.

“I dreaded going to school every day.”

Andrew’s condition meant he was often absent from school and was bullied, which he says was worse than the epilepsy itself.

However, he found solace in martial arts.

He said: “It was Thai boxing I tried first, when I was 17.

“My parents were apprehensive, fearing I could get kicked in the head, but when my father came to watch he saw the positive change in me.”

The positives kept on coming and Andrew quickly achieved a black belt in Taekwondo and progressed in kickboxing.

Around 12 years ago, he suffered from status epilepticus - a dangerous condition in which multiple seizures occur without any recovery of consciousness in between.

It led to a gruelling six week hospitalisation.

He added: “When I left hospital, I was keen to get back to Taekwondo, since it had been so good for me in the past.”

His passion for Taekwondo now sees him coach local youngsters.

His other passion is supporting people with epilepsy - and breaking down the stigma associated with the condition.