Nathan Buckley, the former Collingwood coach and player, recently opened up about his girlfriend, Brodie Ryan, and her battle with epilepsy. Buckley’s revelation came during an event promoting the Walk for Epilepsy, a treadmill challenge where participants commit to walking 4 kilometers a day for 25 days. He shared that Ryan was diagnosed with epilepsy a few years ago, experiencing sudden seizures that were both shocking and challenging.
Buckley explained that Ryan’s condition emerged abruptly, with her going from functioning normally to what he described as “effectively glitching.” He emphasized that while it’s primarily Ryan’s story to tell, he wanted to raise awareness about epilepsy and the impact it can have on individuals and their loved ones. Since her diagnosis, Ryan has been navigating the complexities of the condition, working to understand its triggers and how to manage it effectively.
Before meeting Ryan in 2022, Buckley admitted he had limited knowledge about epilepsy. However, witnessing Ryan’s seizures firsthand changed his perspective, highlighting how quickly and unexpectedly the condition can strike. Over the past two and a half years of their relationship, Ryan has had a couple of seizures, which have prompted them to seek answers and better understand her condition. Buckley described the experience as terrifying, particularly the sudden transition from normalcy to a seizure.
One of Buckley’s key points was the stigma surrounding epilepsy and other medical conditions. He noted that society often tends to “sweep it under the carpet” rather than addressing it openly. This stigma can prevent people from seeking the help and support they need. Buckley expressed hope that as Ryan continues to learn more about her condition, she will be able to manage it more effectively and perhaps contribute to reducing the stigma associated with epilepsy.
The Walk for Epilepsy is not only significant to Buckley and Ryan but also to other AFL legends like Neil Balme and Brett Ratten. Balme, a Richmond great, has a personal connection to the cause, as he has suffered from epilepsy himself. He highlighted the prevalence of the condition, noting that one in 25 people are affected by it, from young children to older adults. Balme recounted his own experience with a severe seizure a few years ago, which occurred suddenly and without warning. He described waking up in an ambulance with his wife by his side, who was deeply concerned for his safety. Fortunately, Balme has been able to manage his condition with medication, but his experience underscores the importance of raising awareness and supporting those affected by epilepsy.
Brett Ratten, a Carlton champion, is also deeply involved in the cause due to his daughter, Tilly, who suffers from epilepsy. Ratten’s involvement highlights how epilepsy can affect not only those diagnosed but also their families, who must navigate the challenges and uncertainties that come with the condition.
In addition to these personal stories, the event also touched on the issue of recovery timelines for athletes dealing with injuries. Western Bulldogs coach Luke Beveridge commented on the club’s cautious approach to ACL injuries, emphasizing the importance of adhering to an 11-month recovery period. Beveridge’s remarks came in response to Carlton’s decision to allow Sam Docherty to return to play just six months after knee surgery. Beveridge defended the Bulldogs’ approach, particularly in the case of Bailey Smith, who is recovering from an ACL injury sustained during training in December.
Smith, who is expected to move to Geelong next season, has been following a strict rehabilitation program. Despite being close to full recovery, the Bulldogs are taking no chances with his return, sticking to their 11-month protocol to ensure his long-term health and success in the game. Beveridge contrasted this with Carlton’s decision to bring Docherty back sooner, suggesting that the Blues might be more willing to take risks given Docherty’s stage in his career. Smith, on the other hand, is seen as a player with a bright future, and the Bulldogs are committed to ensuring he has the best possible chance for a successful career.
The event highlighted not only the personal battles of those affected by epilepsy but also the broader challenges faced by athletes in managing their health and careers. Buckley, Balme, and Ratten’s involvement in the Walk for Epilepsy demonstrates the importance of raising awareness and supporting those affected by the condition, while Beveridge’s comments on injury recovery underscore the need for careful and considered approaches in sports medicine.
