EPILEPSY can be a difficult condition for youngsters to come to terms with but this brave 15-year-old appears to have taken it in her stride.

Olivia Bennett found out she had the neurological condition in 2011 when she was in year seven after her first seizure during a dance club.

The Bridgewater High pupil said: “There was no warning, I just suddenly blanked out and woke up in the ambulance and then in the hospital.

“It was all so bizarre and I was scared.

“The second time it happened I was in school on Red Nose Day and I was a bit shocked when I was told it was epilepsy as around that time I didn’t know what it was.

“I’m fine now when I take my medication and I’ve just been getting on with it.”

With the support of her best friend Hollie Davies in school, Olivia added she knows her limits but does not let her condition stop her from doing what she wants following 16 seizures so far.

Something her mum Sharron said she was very proud of.

Speaking during epilepsy awareness week, she added: “It can be a constant worry but she’s pretty amazing.

“She’s 16 this year so she should be able to do things like babysit for the neighbours but she can’t be on her own.

“It’s had a big impact but she’s been cool.”

Claire Pearson, paediatric epilepsy nurse specialist, said the condition affects 500,000 people in the UK and the department looks after 300 youngsters in Warrington but it can be something children grow out of.

She added: “There are lots of different types of epilepsy and Olivia’s form affects her whole brain which is why there is no warning.

“It’s an unpredictable condition and some children can fit every single day which can be very stressful for parents.

“But 70 to 80 per cent of cases can be controlled with medication and children can lead a normal life.

“If anyone is concerned they should contact their GP.”