Chesterfield boy scoops 'hero' award for helping best friend with epilepsy

Nine-year-old Reggie Worrall was given a ‘Helping Hands Hero’ award by national charity Epilepsy Action, for all he did to help his friend Ellis Mayfield during the coronavirus lockdown.

Ellis was diagnosed with focal epilepsy in 2019.

His current medication doesn’t control his seizures.

Ellis and Reggie were already good friends at school when he was diagnosed, but lockdown brought them even closer.

Reggie FaceTimed Ellis every day to check on him and keep his spirits high.

And quick-thinking Reggie has twice recognized when Ellis is about to have a seizure, shouting for help and alerting his mum to get him to a safe place.

Reggie was nominated for the award by Ellis’ mum Rochelle Mayfield.

She said: “Ellis’ whole world as he knew it was turned upside down when he was diagnosed with epilepsy.

"I saw my cheeky, outgoing little boy become withdrawn, depressed and overcome with anxiety.

"Reggie, thank you so much for being a great friend and an amazing support to Ellis in his time of need.”

Accepting the award, Reggie said: “Ellis is my best friend and I just want him to be happy.

"So I am proud that I can make him feel happy and also help to keep him safe.”

Philip Lee, chief executive at Epilepsy Action, said: “Reggie has shown remarkable care and compassion towards Ellis.

"We are delighted to be able to recognise him as the hero he is with this award.

"We know that 2020 has been a challenging year for everyone.

"It is brilliant to hear stories of people like Reggie making the world better for those with epilepsy.”

Epilepsy affects around one in every 100 people.

The Epilepsy Action ‘Helping Hands’ awards celebrate the nation’s epilepsy

heroes.

They recognise and honour those who have made a real difference to

those with epilepsy in the last 12 months.

Reggie is one of seven people and organisations to receive an award.