BBC Radio 5 Live presenter Steve Crossman has given a two-word update on his health after suffering an epileptic seizure live on air while covering the World Cup in Mexico. Appearing on BBC Breakfast on July 1, Crossman told hosts Jon Kay and Sarah Campbell: 'I'm alright, yeah.'
Details of the Incident
The seizure occurred two weeks ago during a live broadcast from Mexico. Crossman, who has epilepsy, continued his duties after the episode and later discussed his experience on BBC Breakfast. He explained that he had no warning signs before the seizure, describing it as 'completely random.'
Crossman, who suffers from tonic-clonic seizures, noted that he had not experienced one for over five years prior to this incident. A neurologist in Mexico City attributed the seizure to jet lag. He added: 'I've had three seizures in 10 years. One was in Mexico City, one was in Rio, and one was on a treadmill in Aldringham, so that just shows the randomness of it.'
Impact and Response
Crossman highlighted that witnessing a seizure can be more distressing than experiencing one. He recalled a previous seizure during the Rio Olympics, where bystanders pinned him down—a dangerous response. 'That cost me a lot physically and psychologically over the years,' he said. In contrast, during the Mexico City incident, his producer George, editor Mark, engineer, and commentator Ian Dennis knew the correct procedures, which helped him recover.
Crossman also revealed plans to run the London Marathon next year in honor of his late sister Jill, raising funds for the Epilepsy Society. He said: 'Just as his late sister Jill motivated him to carry on working following the incident, she continues to drive him to run in her honour.'
BBC Breakfast airs weekdays on BBC One from 6am.
