Jane Asher Expand Besides her prolific work for theatre, film and television Jane Asher is well known for her successful cake business and is a best-selling author. “I was very moved to read of Daisy’s story, and very honoured to be invited to become a patron of the wonderful charity set up in her name. I so much admire the way Sara and David, having had to endure every parent’s worst imaginable horror, are reaching out to other families to help them avoid some of the suffering and distress that can be caused by childhood epilepsy. I’ve no doubt the lives of many children with this complex and debilitating condition will be transformed through their efforts, and I hope to do my bit to promote their excellent work.” Jane Asher
Gillian Higgins Expand We are extremely pleased to announce the appointment of a new Patron, Gillian Higgins. For the past 22 years Gillian has worked as a criminal barrister representing leading political figures before International and UN tribunals. She is also an experienced mindfulness teacher. Her book “Mindfulness at Work and Home” explores and explains the simplicity and effectiveness of mindfulness when used daily. Of her appointment Gillian said: "I am delighted to be part of The Daisy Garland, a charity whose highly commendable work not only provides across the board support to thousands of families countrywide but has brought the ketogenic diet to the forefront as a treatment for drug-resistant epilepsy. I share their passion for what they do."
Rikki Londesborough Expand Rikki is a busy mother of two children and knows first-hand the impact epilepsy has on family life. “I am very grateful to have been asked to be a Patron of The Daisy Garland. It is a charity that I support with all my heart. As the parent of a child with epilepsy I fully understand the terrible heartache of watching your child seize. Time stands still and it brings with it an awful sense of loneliness. So many times, I have lain all night with my child holding his wrist, feeling his pulse hoping that there will be no more seizures… and then the daytime dread of what might be ahead? The Daisy Garland is wonderfully positive. It helps in so many ways from the provision of night-time breathing monitors so children can sleep safely in their own beds, to funding the encouraging and potentially life-changing ketogenic diet supported by specialist Daisy Garland Ketogenic Dietitians. The Daisy Garland makes us feel less lonely, less care-worn and gives us hope and courage so that we can make a difference to our children’s lives.” Rikki Londesborough
Anne Wadsworth OBE Expand Anne is a successful businesswoman, who for many years has been helping charities in the fields of integrated health and disability, in all its many forms, to raise funds and achieve their inspiring goals. “I have come to know Sara and David Garland well over the years, helping them to raise matched funding to provide a life-changing Ketogenic Dietitian in two large NHS hospitals – the Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital and the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Glasgow. Reports from both Dietitians have been extensive and very encouraging, with some exciting results achieved in reducing and in some cases, even eliminating seizures. I am delighted to become a Patron of this wonderful charity and to have the opportunity to support Sara and David in their work going forward. My admiration for their determination and fortitude in establishing and making such a success of The Daisy Garland knows no bounds. Their inspiring example in turning such a dreadful loss into a lifelong legacy of helping other children with drug resistant epilepsy deserves all our help and support” Anne Wadsworth OBE