A Kennington-based mum is hosting a Coronation event to raise money and awareness about ‘sudden death in epilepsy’ after she lost her 32-year-old son.
After a successful event last year for the late Queen’s Jubilee, Henrietta Hastings and her neighbour, Alison Roe are hosting a Coronation Carnival.
On Sunday May 7, in West Square in Kennington, guests are invited to dress as the King or Queen Consort to enjoy a day of celebration with a DJ, a BBQ, traditional races and a treasure hunt.
There will also be a bar with cocktails and mocktails.
“It’s a great opportunity to get the community together,” Henrietta told the News.
“Last year, we raised over £2,160 for a charity in Ukraine helping to move the severely disabled out of dangerous areas.”
This year, the charity is especially close to their hearts.
“My son Charlie died 18 months ago from a sudden unexpected death of epilepsy (SUDEP).
“Our family were devastated,” Henrietta said.
She explained that he was in the middle of training to be an occupational therapist and was an activist for disability rights.
“We decided to raise money for SUDEP Action this year – a charity that campaigns for better preventative information for medics, patients and families,” she said.
Alison, who is also organising the event, lost a young colleague recently to SUDEP. It typically hits young adults aged 20-35 and in the UK alone, it is estimated that around 500-600 die from it every year.
Despite this, Henrietta said many people still aren’t aware of it. “That’s why it’s important for us to do whatever we can to inform others about how they can avoid the risks.”
She added nearby primary school, Charlotte Sharman is trying to upgrade their ‘run-down’ library, so money raised from a second-hand book stall will go to them.
The event on Sunday May 7 is open to all and will take place from 1 pm – 6 pm in West Square, off St George’s Road, Kennington, SE11 4SN.
Tickets are £3 for adults and £1 for children. Everyone who buys a ticket will automatically be entered into the raffle.
For tickets or to donate to the raffle email coronationcarnival2023@gmail.com.