Emmerdale epilepsy storyline brings Oldham girl hope

A soap storyline has inspired an Oldham teenager to continue her brave fight against twice-weekly seizures and encouraged her father to climb a mountain at the same time!

Tasneem Rahman’s experience is almost identical to that of Emmerdale character, Liv Flaherty.

Subject to fits almost twice a week that almost split her tongue in half, the 13-year-old also “zones out” and was nearly hit by a car when crossing a road in Chadderton.

“I don’t think a lot of people know what to do when they see someone having a seizure, so it is great to see it on Emmerdale,” said the talented arts student.

"Like Liv, I worry about my epilepsy and don’t want it to hurt me or stop me from driving one day.”

Tasneem’s worries are shared by her dad, Akke Rahman, who is concerned that COVID-19 pressures on the health service mean his daughter is not getting the attention she needs.

“We are really grateful to Oldham Council’s epilepsy nurse and to Tasneem’s friends and teachers at North Chadderton school, but paediatricians and other specialists are hard to get in front of at present,” said Akke.

“I am worried because the seizures are more frequent, and it is heart-breaking to watch and indeed see your daughter wake up crying every time.”

Akke has become quite the media figure over the last few months and has been dubbed “The Bengali Mountaineer” for his exploits conquering Mount Elbrus in record time, just weeks after having coronavirus.

He is now determined to use his new-found fame to climb Kilimanjaro by its toughest route without acclimatisation in just one day – for Epilepsy Action.

Emmerdale has been following Liv Flaherty’s journey, depicting her seizures, her family’s response, and the hospital treatment (including gaining a proper diagnosis) she then receives.

Dr Anita Sharma, GP at the South Chadderton Medical Centre with an expertise in women’s health, said: “There has been so much focus on COVID-19 this year, but a condition such as Tasneem’s can and should not be ignored.

"We as GPs can be excellent advocates in getting a child in front of a specialist paediatrician, so my advice would be to contact your local practice.

"Should you see someone having a seizure, please call 999 and rather than resorting to myths such as placing something in the patient’s mouth, listen to the advice being given to you.”

Akke Rahman is aiming to collect £5,000 for charity, Epilepsy Action.

Aside from seeking donations, he is offering businesses the opportunity to sponsor his clothing and the banner he will raise when he reaches the summit.

You can donate or gain further information by clicking here

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