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On the 23rd April 2014 we will cycling over 500km to raise funds for The Encephalitis Society. 

Last summer our daughter Eleanor contracted acute viral encephalitis, something we had never heard of.

Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain that comes on suddenly and produces serious neurological disease and in most cases an acquired brain injury. There are a variety of causes ranging from infection to auto-immune responses. 

Encephalitis frequently begins with a ‘flu-like' illness or headache. Typically more serious symptoms follow hours to days later and range from mild confusion or drowsiness, to seizures, loss of consciousness and coma.

After a long journey we are fortunate that Eleanor is making an incredible recovery and is back at school with all her friends. This is no short measure due to the incredible efforts, diligence and professional care she received at Watford General Hospital, Great Ormond Street Hospital and the support given to us from The Encephalitis Society.

The Encephalistis Society were our lifeline for many weeks when Eleanor was critically ill and the doctors had done everything they could do. They guided us through a period of uncertainty that was both challenging and frightening and did so with absolute support.

Encephalitis is a rare condition which little is known however being able to diagnose it early is critical to a patient's survival. 

For that reason we want to increase awareness of Encephalitis and we want to help support many more families from diaognsis through to recovery. We hope you will too. 

Nick & Clare