A inspirational woman who was "trapped in her own body" after a devastating stroke has died.
Mia Austin, from Bebington , suffered from ‘Locked-in Syndrome’ - meaning she couldn't move or speak and could only communicate by using a special computer which tracked her eye movements.
Mia suffered a stroke aged 21 after collapsing in the middle of the night despite being perfectly healthy.
Mia was then diagnosed with an extremely rare condition known as ‘locked in syndrome’ which medics have described as “the closest thing to being buried alive”.
But Mia defied the odds, travelled around the world and wrote a book about her life story using just her eyes - called In The Blink Of An Eye.
She was also recently named Merseyside Woman of 2019 for her charity work.
Sadly this week Mia lost her life, with her friend Ben sharing the sad news on her Facebook page.
He said: "Unfortunately on Wednesday, Mia lost her life, in the place she loved the most, Abersoch.
"Mia has touched the lives of thousands of people and the World is worse off for not having her in it.
"She was not only inspirational with her positive attitude after what she has been through, but she was a kind person and would put others before herself.
"Mia was nominated for Merseyside Woman of the year 2019 And was announced the winner on Friday.
"This is a recognition for all of her charity work, campaigning, writing a book and being a role model for thousands of people thank you for every single person who voted for her you have no idea how much it would of meant to her to know she had won we just wish she had of been there to see it.
"Even though we have lost Mia, her spirit will live on in all of us. Mia has taught us how to deal with adversity, to give generously to those in need, to inspire people to be the best versions of themselves, not to take tomorrow for granted, to live life to the full, but most importantly, how to be a nice person.
"We can all take our memories of Mia into our future lives and be thankful for the short, but memorable time we each have spent with her.
“Appreciate walking
Appreciate talking
Appreciate laughing
Appreciate freedom
Appreciate eating
Appreciate drinking
Appreciate sorting
Appreciate singing
Appreciate people
Appreciate shopping
Appreciate memories
Appreciate moving
Appreciate family
Appreciate everything
Be grateful for all you do
Because even if it seems tiny, it’s HUGE to me.
"The family hope that you will appreciate their privacy during this sad time. Goodnight Mia. Xxx"
Hundreds of people have since paid tribute to Mia underneath the Facebook post.
Carole Van Niekerk said: "I’m absolutely devastated to hear this, for her, for her family and for her friends. Mia was an amazing young woman who inspired so many. I am sending my heartfelt condolences to the family."
Gill Bale said: "I am so sorry what a beautiful courageous young lady. I have her book and will treasure it. All my best wishes to her family xx"
And Emma Clough said: "Rest.in.paradise Mia Austin you showed us all that life is worth living. You were so inspirational. The things you've achieved, fund raising, and changing peoples lives and lots more were amazing. Heavens gained a beautiful angel.. sweet dreams."
