Epilepsy sufferer travels to London for specialist help

A woman with severe epilepsy, who has waited more than two years for vital tests, has travelled to London to begin a process that could lead to life-changing treatment.

The HSE initially refused Gráinne O’Connor, 27, from Shanagarry, Co Cork, permission to seek treatment abroad on the basis that the “appropriate services” were available in Beaumont Hospital.

However, the HSE was forced to reverse its decision on foot of negative publicity when the Irish Examiner highlighted Ms O’Connor’s plight and the fact that “appropriate services” are not available in Ireland.