In 2009, thousands of children in this country were taken to their nearest doctors office or medical centre to take part in a vaccination programme against the swine flu epidemic. For over 80 of these children, who developed narcolepsy in the wake of that vaccination, their lives were changed forever.

Ellen was a normal, healthy 12-year-old until she and her family had the flu vaccine, as recommended by medical staff so they could visit a cousin in hospital.

Members of a European alliance lobbying for adequate state support for hundreds of children who developed narcolepsy after receiving a swine flu vaccine will outline their concerns today to the EU health commissioner.

Children who developed narcolepsy after receiving the swine flu vaccine have yet to be offered a comprehensive package of supports almost a year after a Government pledge.

Lauren Kavanagh wakes with such speed from deep sleep that her dreams can seem real and she is terrorised by the sense of a presence.