Hundreds attended the funeral of Brazil Walsh on Monday after the "fit and healthy" 20-year-old's tragic death.
The woman, known to friends as 'Be', went out on a shopping trip in Harvey Nichols in Briggate, Leeds, on her birthday on April 24 before collapsing. She was rushed to St James' University Hospital, before later being transferred to Leeds General Infinitary, where tests revealed Be had an unknown serious brain inflammation.
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Sister Kirsty Marshall said: "In advanced stages, individuals may lose the ability to walk, as their muscles stiffen or spasm. There is progressive deterioration to a coma.
"In a matter of weeks Be went from being forgetful but able to talk, to being unable to communicate at all." The rare but serious brain inflammation attacked the memory and vision part of her brain.
The keen horse rider and "master of judo" was left in a coma and weeks later sadly died on Friday June, 3.
Be's mum Lilibeth Walsh, and dad Mike Walsh described her as a "fun loving, passionate, caring young woman". She was a "fit and healthy" individual who always loved sport from horse riding to becoming a "master of judo" - gaining a blackbelt in the sport.
Family and friends have been left "absolutely heartbroken" by her tragic death. Best friend Mia Cruickshanks said: "Brazil collapsed and was taken to hospital on her birthday. She spent almost five weeks fighting Dawson's disease.
"On June 3 Brazil gained her angel wings. We (her best friends) are absolutely heartbroken and want to help give her the most amazing send off.
"Anyone who knew Brazil knows that she was the most amazing, beautiful, kind, and funny. She was a talented young lady who was loved beyond measure."
On Monday July 4 hundreds turned out to the Honley resident's funeral. Friends lead the way up to her memorial at Park Wood Crematorium, Elland, Halifax, on horses - paying tribute to Be's love for equestrian.
Her former horse riding trainer Emma Louise said: "I was her horse riding instructor at Bradshaw Road stables and riding school for many years. She was part of the stables family. She ended up pursuing her judo to a high level.
"We are absolutely heartbroken and want to help give her the most amazing send off." Those who knew the "passionate" 20-year-old queued outside the door to get into the memorial service on Monday.
Be's sister Kirsty Marshall said loved ones came from abroad for the service. Pink and lilac flowers laid on top of the coffin, included a B-shaped bouquet.
Be's family and friends are now planning to raise £1,000 for Leeds General Infirmary neurosciences department. They also want to raise awareness of brain inflammation in young people.
They added: "We hope that this will help save even one life from this awful virus."
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