A local family is bracing for an important day as six-year-old Lois prepares to undergo epilepsy surgery at Great Ormond Street Hospital on Friday 28 November. Lois is the niece of Overton resident Gillian Harrison, who says the operation marks the peak of a long and difficult journey.
Lois was diagnosed with cerebral palsy at the age of one. In 2023, doctors confirmed she also lives with intractable focal epilepsy, a form of the condition that does not respond well to medication. Gillian says the family knew the road ahead would be steep.
“I had said there would be a mountain to climb and I was not wrong; there most definitely has. But on Friday, we will reach the summit, together,” she said.
The family has been fundraising to help cover the rehabilitation Lois will need once her surgery is complete. Gillian thanked everyone who has donated or offered support.
Epilepsy affects about one in every 220 children in the UK. Around 1,000 people die each year from causes linked to the condition, with half of these deaths caused by Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). While many people can control seizures with medication, some require further treatment, including surgery.
More information about Lois’ operation and ongoing rehabilitation efforts can be found on her fundraising page: gofundme.com/LoisRehabilitationFund.