On the 23rd April 2014 Clare and I will be cycling from London to Paris (over 500km) to raise funds for The Encephalitis Society. 

6 months ago our daughter Eleanor (Ella) contracted acute viral encephalitis, something we had never heard of. It came from no where and we are currently unaware of its full impact.

Encephalitis comes on suddenly and produces serious neurological disease and in most cases an acquired brain injury. There are a variety of causes and for a high majority of cases the exact cause is unknown. So bascially lots of question marks!

After a long journey we are fortunate that Eleanor is making a positve recovery and is back at school with all her friends. We have achieved this through the support of wonderful family and friends and the ongoing  care she is receiving at Watford General and Great Ormond Street Hospital.The Encephalitis Society were literally our lifeline for many weeks when Eleanor was critically ill. They guided us through a very frightening period and continue to support us today. 

Encephalitis is a rare condition which little is known, however being able to diagnose early is critical to a patients survival. Eleanor's life was saved because doctors recognised the symptoms. For that reason we want to increase awareness of Encephalitis and we want to help support many more families from diaognsis through to recovery. 

Nick & Clare