As a university student studying Neuroscience, I never imagined that a chance encounter would lead me into the world of horse racing and a tight-knit community fighting to raise awareness for a rare epilepsy condition called Ring Chromosome 20 Syndrome, or r(20). My involvement began when I learned about Ring20 Research and Support—a charity dedicated to helping those living with this rare form of epilepsy. Shocked that I hadn’t come across the condition before in my studies, I was compelled to get involved, and volunteering at their charity horse racing day in Brighton felt like the perfect opportunity. The day was one I’ll never forget. Set against the scenic backdrop of Brighton’s racecourse, the atmosphere buzzed with excitement and anticipation. As a volunteer, my main task was helping with fundraising efforts, guiding guests, and spreading awareness about r(20). But what struck me most was the incredible community I encountered. I met families who live with the daily challenges of r(20), each with their own unique story of courage and resilience. From parents of young children to adults managing seizures, every conversation left me more inspired. The bond between these families was palpable; they weren’t just attendees—they were a family brought together by the shared mission of fighting this rare disease.

Kallif, Step Into The Ring support