A YOUNG epileptic sufferer from Poole has raised thousands of pounds for University Hospitals Dorset through his love of knitting.

Joshie Cadbury, 11, was diagnosed with epilepsy after travelling to Switzerland when he showed symptoms of epilepsy.

He and his family were traveling from Calais in August 2023 when Joshie became ill.

After spending a few nights at Calais Hospital, he was discharged and free to enjoy the rest of his holiday.

Unfortunately, after the holiday, Joshie experienced further seizures which led to his epilepsy diagnosis.

While in hospital, Joshie discovered a new hobby of knitting that turned into a fundraiser making headbands for UHD.  

Joshie and his family have raised a grand total of £2,000 for UHD NHS Trust’s epilepsy fund through his business called BANZ where he charges £10 per headband.

His parents also fundraised by working with New Forest Aid to offer training courses for important life lessons such as CPR, seizures, choking and use of defibrillators at £25 per course.

Joshie said: “I have loved getting into knitting more since being diagnosed with epilepsy, and it has helped me so much.

“It has turned a tough situation into a more positive one. It’s been so great to raise money for University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity and help others with epilepsy.

“I couldn’t have done it without the help from my family and friends and am so grateful for everyone’s support.”

University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity public fundraising officer, Amy Beauchamp, said: "We’re absolutely delighted by Joshie's incredible donation and generosity.

“His £3,000 donation will help us enhance the care provided by the epilepsy team at University Hospitals Dorset and weave hope into the lives of people living with epilepsy. He's truly crafted a more positive future for so many."

The £3,000 raised by Joshie for University Hospitals Dorset NHS Charity will go directly towards transforming care and resources for people living with epilepsy receiving treatment at our local hospitals.

Donations to the UHD charity can be made by visiting the University Hospitals Dorset website.