THE family of a young woman with epilepsy is determined to help other sufferers and raise awareness of the condition that has put her life on hold.

Leona McKee, of Whitworth Road, Rodbourne Cheney, was only 18 when her plans to train as a police officer came to an abrupt halt with the diagnosis of the condition only a month after a job interview to become a community support officer.

To show their support, her friends and family are taking part in the 20-mile Walkley Midnight Walk from Avebury to Bishopstone across the Ridgeway through the night on June 12.

They aim to raise money for charity Epilepsy Action and Bristol’s Frenchay Hospital where Leona receives treatment.

Leona, 22, said: “My family do so much for me, I have to keep going for them.”

The walk precedes National Epilepsy Week from June 13 to June 19, which focuses on young people with epilepsy. Leona hopes her story can help to redress the stereotypes surrounding the condition.

Her condition has lately become more serious and she was taken into intensive care twice in the last month.

She is hoping an operation in the next year could give her a solution to the fits or at least reduce their intensity.

Leona said: “People just think you throw yourself around on the floor, I just want to get more information out there.”

As her condition worsened, Leona lost her driving licence, can only work part time and rarely goes out with her friends.

Leona’s mother Kathy McKee, 41, said: “It’s just her whole quality of life – it’s really on hold. You blame yourself.

“It’s distressing, you feel completely useless. You try to keep positive, but you don’t get used to it.”

Anyone wishing to donate online to the challenge, money from which goes direct to Epilepsy Action should visit http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/leo.

Alternatively, donations can be send via cheque payable to Rotary Club of Swindon Thamesdown, and posted to: Mr and Mrs P Parfrey, 3 Ray Close, Haydon Wick, Swindon, SN25 3LY.