Longford Teen Receives Epilepsy Ireland Volunteer of the Year Award
A Longford teenager has been recognised for extraordinary dedication to epilepsy awareness and fundraising, after Epilepsy Ireland named Rebecca Reid and her family as recipients of its Volunteer of the Year award. The national non-profit, which represents people with epilepsy and their families, honoured Rebecca at its recent national conference for a year of outstanding advocacy and community work.
About Epilepsy Ireland and the Award
Epilepsy Ireland works toward a society where no person’s life is limited by epilepsy. The Volunteer of the Year award celebrates individuals who go above and beyond to promote awareness, support others, and raise crucial funds for research, services, and education. Rebecca’s entries and campaigns have become a model of community-led, compassionate action, particularly in regions where access to information can be uneven.
Rebecca Reid: A 14-Year-Old Advocate with Daily Courage
Rebecca, 14, lives with a severe form of epilepsy and experiences seizures on an almost daily basis. Despite these challenges, she remains upbeat, resilient, and deeply committed to helping others understand the condition. Her effort to translate personal experiences into public education has been a cornerstone of her work with Epilepsy Ireland.
A Year of Impactful Advocacy
In speaking about Rebecca’s contribution, Epilepsy Ireland’s Advocacy & Communications Manager, Paddy McGeoghegan, highlighted her role in promoting the TIME, SAFE, STAY message—an important framework for seizure response. “Rebecca is one of the biggest advocates for our message of TIME, SAFE, STAY for seizure response—recording videos for our biggest awareness days throughout the year to share this vitally important message,” he said. “She has also led on some incredible fundraisers for Epilepsy Ireland—some involving her entire local community.”
A Family that Makes a Difference
Rebecca’s sister Emma has consistently stood by her side, underscoring the essential role of family support on an epilepsy journey. McGeoghegan noted that the sisters’ shared efforts have become a lasting example of how family involvement can amplify outreach and impact. “In all these efforts over the years, Rebecca’s biggest supporter has been there to help – her little sister Emma – highlighting how family support is so important on an individual’s journey with epilepsy.”
Acknowledgement and Future Involvement
Recognising Rebecca, Emma, and their family as the recipients of Epilepsy Ireland’s Volunteer of the Year award is described by the organization as a token of appreciation for years of backing and service. The acknowledgement also reflects the broader aim of encouraging more people to participate in fundraising and awareness campaigns that improve the lives of people living with epilepsy across Ireland.
Voices from the Family
Rebecca’s mother, Gráinne, expressed pride and gratitude for the recognition. “We are beyond pleased to see Rebecca’s and Emma’s efforts recognised. Rebecca has a particularly challenging form of the condition, but she never lets it get her down and is such an inspiration to us all.” She added that Rebecca’s advocacy has inspired the family to engage more deeply with Epilepsy Ireland’s events and campaigns. “It was such a delight to get the phone call telling us that Rebecca’s efforts were being recognised by EI through this award – I don’t think I’ll ever forget her smile the day she found out!”
Looking Ahead
Rebecca’s award shines a light on the power of youth-led advocacy and community involvement. Her story demonstrates how personal experience can drive meaningful change, from local fundraisers to national awareness campaigns. Epilepsy Ireland will no doubt continue to rely on voices like hers to educate the public, reduce stigma, and improve access to information and services for families affected by epilepsy.
Conclusion
Across Ireland, Epilepsy Ireland’s Volunteer of the Year honours young champions who transform challenge into opportunity for others. Rebecca Reid’s courage, cooperation with her sister, and commitment to education and fundraising illustrate the impact a local teen can have on a national stage. The award not only recognises past achievements but also signals ongoing involvement that benefits the epilepsy community for years to come.
