THE family of a young dancer recently diagnosed with epilepsy is hosting a fundraising day to raise money for a charity that helps youngsters with the condition.

Eight-year-old Erika Porter, from Darlington, was diagnosed with epilepsy around two weeks ago after suffering from a number of seizures and blackouts.

The Harrowgate Hill Primary School pupil, who also has type one diabetes, recently had a seizure about an hour before she was due to perform at an international street dance competition, in Glasgow.

However, instead of taking time out to recover, the plucky youngster went on to dance and beat about 30 other competitors to come second in the under-eight category for both her solo and duo performances.

Her mother Paula Porter said: “Her diagnosis was a big shock to us, but she takes everything in her stride.”

To help her cope with the condition, the youngster needs a £400 sensor mat for her bed, which detects when a sleeping person is about to have a seizure.

In a bid to raise the money for the mat, as well as raising funds for Diabetes UK and Young Epilepsy – a charity that supports youngsters with epilepsy – the family have organised a charity fitstepathon at Hummersknott Academy, in Darlington, from noon to 2pm on December 7.

Tickets are £10 and include entry into a raffle.

To buy a ticket or to donate a raffle prize call Mrs Porter on 07805-610-122 or Sharon Spry on 07515-408-527.