A WOMAN is holding a masquerade ball to raise funds for an epilepsy charity after her husband’s death last year.

Lucy Bidgood, 40, lost her husband, Gareth, 33, in July 2013 after he suffered an epileptic seizure.

Mrs Bidgood, of Waverley Gardens, Grays, is now hoping to raise awareness of Sudep – sudden and unexplained deaths in epilepsy.

She said: “Not many people know that you can die from epilepsy. From my personal point, I would like to ensure everybody in this country is aware of Sudep.

“It has a devastating effect to lose someone you love so suddenly and then have no answers.

My husband was only 33 and left behind our four children.”

Mrs Bidgood is holding the ball to raise awareness about the condition and also to raise money for the charity Sudep Action.

It helps to raise funds and awareness and provides support to families who have lost loved ones.

Mrs Bidgood said: “It is shocking to learn that people only know about Sudep when they’re personally affected.

“Since organising this ball, I have had to explain what Sudep is to everyone who doesn’t know me.”

The ball is set to take place at the Civic Hall, in Blackshots Lane, Grays on Friday, November 21 from 7pm.

Tickets are £40, which includes a three-course meal and a guest appearance from a mystery celebrity.

For more information, visit https://www.facebook.com /masqueradeballSUDEP

To donate, visit, gareth.bidgood.muchloved.com