A Leeds woman died aged just 24 after a series of bad headaches was followed by a sudden heart attack.
Elle was diagnosed with autism at a young age, before being diagnosed with epilepsy at 19. She suffered her first seizure in March of 2014, and these became frequent over the years.
The seizures left her family worried about Ellie's health as they began to have a severe impact. Elle loved hanging out in Temple Newsam Park, singing and going to the pub for a packet of crisps and a Coca-Cola. But after a while, such favoured activities "became a chore".
Elle began to get severe headaches and became extremely tired doing mundane tasks. On Wednesday February 27, 2019, her family received a call to say the 24-year-old had gone into cardiac arrest.
The family spent three "painful" long days waiting in intensive care, hoping their loved one would come around. The doctors discovered Elle had an injury to her brain.
The severity of Elle's injuries left consultants worried for her future. Her sister Sophie said: "We were told by consultants that due to the damage on her brain we would have to let Elle go."
"This was the worst news we could have ever imagined receiving. Anyone who knew her would know how much she loved singing. Our lives will never be the same without her and we miss her so much every day."
Now the family are doing all they can to keep her memory alive. In April 2020, her sister Sophie planned a charity event for her sister, nicknamed 'Little Miss Sunshine'. However, sadly due to Covid the event was repeatedly postponed.
Now, on April 9 this year, the fundraising event in aid of people suffering from epilepsy will be held at The Leodis Pub, in Green Lane, Leeds. There will be a raffle, a sweepstake for The Grand National, a tombola, as well as karaoke alongside drinks.
Sophie said: "The DJ has been booked and I am also going to set up a little Easter crafts table for kids for a couple of hours and do a mini Easter egg hunt. The DJ said he will also set up the mics for karaoke if anyone fancies a song after a few drinks.
"I will keep everyone updated on plans nearer to the time. It is only two weeks on Saturday. I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone and raising lots of money for The Epilepsy Society.
"Also, please feel free to wear an item of yellow in Elle’s memory if you have something. Thank you, everyone."
Sophie added that she would also like to raise enough funds to be able to get a bench in honour of Elle in Temple Newsam Park - her favourite spot. She will also be setting up a Go Fund Me page so people can donate directly.
