A mum from Stroud is launching a charity to raise awareness of epilepsy after her daughter died suddenly from the condition.

Emma Taylor lost her 19-year-old daughter Erin to SUDEP - Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy - earlier this year.

Erin was diagnosed with epilepsy out of the blue when she was 13, after suffering three major seizures in a 12 hour period.

She started on various medication combinations, enduring these for the next five years without obtaining any seizure control and with no known triggers.

At the time of her death in March she was on a combination of three medications.

“Epilepsy can come with various complications and side issues, such as mental health issues, memory issues, confidence issues and, notably in Erin's case, the general feeling of not being a “normal” teenager,” explained Emma.

“The main reason for setting up Erin’s Wish is to raise funds for, and awareness of, SUDEP.”

 

Emma is setting up Erin's Wish with the help of Erin's stepdad and two good friends

Approximately one per 1000 people with epilepsy die suddenly and prematurely with no reason for the death being found, according to charity SUDEP Action.

The cause of SUDEP is not yet known, though researchers are investigating a range of possibilities such as the effect of seizures on breathing and the heart.

To launch Erin’s Wish, Emma is holding a charity race night at Eastcombe Village Hall on Saturday, September 29 at 7pm.

Joining her will be Dr Dawn Porter, a GP from Embarrassing Bodies and town councillor Steve Dechan,

Stroud MP David Drew has expressed his support for the charity.

“I was very sad to learn about Erin and the family’s tragic loss,” said Mr Drew.

“I have also been inspired to hear about their work to remember Erin in a positive way and create a lasting legacy.

“More research is urgently needed into SUDEP, as well as education, training and awareness amongst health professionals.

“I wish Emma and her supporters every success with Erin’s Wish.”