A local family are taking part in a charity football match to raise funds for a cause close to their hearts.

Four-year-old Cayden from Windsor was diagnosed with epilepsy over a year ago and despite trying multiple types of medication, none have helped ease his symptoms.

Cayden has two to three seizures a day, many of which result in him being admitted to the hospital.

Desperate to find a cure, Mark Payne-Welch, Cayden's father, will soon take part in a charity football match in a bid to raise funds for national charity, Young Epilepsy.  

The family have worked with Cayden’s epilepsy team to find the right medication, and so far, having tried six different types, none have succeeded in stopping the seizures.  

Mark said: "Cayden has a scar on the left-hand side of his brain, if they don’t find the right medication it’s an option for Brain surgery.

"He is a fighter and the support we have had from family and friends is amazing but now it’s time to make a difference so please Join me in making a difference for children and young people with epilepsy."

With support from their family and friends, Mark and his wife, are determined to give back to help other children living with epilepsy in the UK.  

Mark said: "As someone who has seen the impact of this condition firsthand, I am participating in a charity football match to raise funds for Young Epilepsy.

"On March 27, I will be taking on a personal challenge to support this important cause."

He added: "Epilepsy can be one of the most frightening and isolating conditions a young person can experience.

"But with your help, we can improve research, treatment, and practical support for those affected by it."

Young Epilepsy is a national charity providing health and support services for children and young people with epilepsy and related conditions.   

There are over 100,000 children and young people in the UK living with epilepsy.

Epilepsy is a neurological condition that disrupts the normal electrical activity our brains use to communicate with the rest of the body. This disruption causes seizures.

The condition is one of the most common long-term conditions that affects children. and every young person’s epilepsy is unique to them.

In most cases, epilepsy is well managed, and seizures are controlled, but it is a very serious condition that can be life-threatening.     

The charity football match will see Datchet FC take on the Thames Valley Raiders at Windsor and Eton Football Club on March 27.

Entry is £2 with all funds raised going to Young Epilepsy along with the proceeds of the raffle with signed shirts from Maidenhead FC and Slough Town on offer plus official McLaren F1 merchandise.  

To donate visit justgiving.com/page/mark-payne-welch-1696946386613#timelineUpdates