Hannah Pickles died at home, in bed on April 26th 2020. The cause of death was Sudden Unexplained Death in Epilepsy(SUDEP). Hannah was 26 years old and had lived with epilepsy since the age of 13.

Her epilepsy was resistant to drug control and seizures would leave Hannah dazed and confused for two or three days afterwards. They also affected her memory and concentration. Despite these limitations, Hannah worked hard to get through GCSEs, A-levels and her university degree.

Waking up every day, never quite knowing how she would be able to function and the strain of coping with living with epilepsy, took their toll on Hannah. This often left her feeling uncertain about herself and low in confidence. After finishing her degree, it was very difficult to find suitable employment opportunities due to the frequency of her seizures which took one week in three out of her fully functional life.

Climbing Out was crucial in helping Hannah establish an active life. When she was feeling down, the Climbing Out experience had given her such a boost that she knew that she always would, could and should do things, especially when it was most difficult. 

Following her Climbing Out adventures, she explored a vast range of activities  including jewellery making, proof reading, country walks, volunteering with the Severn Valley Hospice, Mayflower Centre and Breathing Space, a community choir. Hannah also kept a fantastic network of friends personally and through social media, something that we have only really become aware of since she died.

We lost a special person in Hannah; special for the brightness she brought when she was fully on form and special for the strength, determination and resilience that carried her through the difficult days.

For anyone who needs that helping lift, for whatever reason, Climbing Out can be vital in setting them off or keeping them going. Please donate in memory of Hannah and please spread the word about Climbing Out to help other people who need it.

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