A “fun-loving and passionate” woman suddenly collapsed during a shopping trip on her 20th birthday and died weeks later of a rare brain condition.
Keen sports fan Brazil Walsh, known to her friends as Be, had gone shopping to celebrate the milestone in April this year when she collapsed in Harvey Nichols and was rushed to hospital.
Be was later transferred to Leeds General Infirmary where she was diagnosed with encephalitis, a rare inflammation which attacks the vision and memory part of the brain.
She eventually slipped into a coma and died on June 3, Yorkshire Live reports.
Speaking on behalf of Be's mum Lilibeth Walsh, family member Kirsty Marshall said: "Be was a fun loving, passionate, caring young woman. She was fit, healthy and a master of judo.
“After numerous tests and numerous doctors from not only Leeds but London and Oxford as well, it was finally diagnosed. Unfortunately there is no cure and her brain could not cope any longer, the virus had spread throughout.
"In advanced stages, individuals may lose the ability to walk, as their muscles stiffen or spasm. There is progressive deterioration to a coma.
“In a matter of weeks Be went from being forgetful but able to talk, to being unable to communicate at all.”
Best friend Mia Cruickshanks said: "Brazil collapsed and was taken to hospital on her birthday. She spent almost five weeks fighting Dawson's disease. On June 3 Brazil gained her angel wings.
"We (her best friends) are absolutely heartbroken and want to help give her the most amazing send off.
“Anyone who knows Brazil knows that she was the most amazing, beautiful, kind, funny and talented young lady who was loved beyond measure."
Be's family and friends are now planning to raise £1,000 for the 20-year-old's funeral and her former horse riding teacher is also hosting a fundraising event on June 25 at the stables where she used to train.
Trainer Emma Louise said: "I was her horse riding instructor at Bradshaw Road stables and riding school for many years. She was part of the stables family. She ended up pursuing her judo to a high level.
"We are absolutely heartbroken and want to help give her the most amazing send off. We also want to donate some money to charity.
"We are hosting a fundraiser ride. We want to see as many faces as possible on foot or on horse back. We will be taking collection buckets."
To donate to the Go Fund Me in honour of Brazil Walsh click here .
