Lauren Runs for SUDEP Action After Death of Partner

Lauren is running the Middlesborough 10K this year to raise awareness of SUDEP after the tragic loss of her partner.

Lauren and Tom first met when they were 16 and, after many years of friendship, they began their life together.

"He was kind, funny, and had a heart of gold, and was loved effortlessly by everyone who knew him. We were looking forward to our future together."

But on the 20th of February in 2023, at the age of 26, Tom died suddenly from SUDEP (Sudden, Unexpected Death in Epilepsy) - something Lauren had never heard of until it changed her life forever.

"The grief has been overwhelming, but alongside it is a fierce determination to make sure that no one else is left in the dark about SUDEP the way we were. That's why I have signed up to run the Middlesborough 10K, to raise money for SUDEP Action, a charity dedicated to awareness, support, and research. They work tirelessly to ensure that people get the information and support they need."

Unfortunately, SUDEP is still not widely understood, even among healthcare professionals, so Lauren shares Tom's story in the hope that it will help others.

Now in her final year as a Student Nurse, Lauren knows that Tom will be cheering her on as she works to try and save others from the same tragedy that they endured.

"He always believed in me, even when I didn't believe in myself. This fundraiser is just one way of honouring that - and turning my pain into purpose."

Tom's life was defined by love, laughter, and the quiet strength he carried through everything, and Lauren hopes that his legacy will reflect the same spirit.

"This is just the beginning of a lifelong commitment to raising awareness - for Tom, and for every life that could still be protected."