Carolyn Taylor, our epilepsy nurse

Carolyn has been a constant support since my daughter Ruby Jean was diagnosed with epilepsy at 6 months old. She is now 2 and has very complex prolonged seizures and I can always call on Carolyn for help at any point. I also have epilepsy and sometimes find it hard but she is always there to help me and talk to me – we would be lost without her.

Carolyn was always my first point of contact when dealing with Thomas's epilepsy and medication. She was always available to see us and on the end of the phone when needed. She regularly visited our home to see how I was coping and to see how Thomas was dealing with his medication. There were many hospital visits/appointments and Carolyn was there for us, to help me understand the different processes and talk me through what would happen, putting me at ease.

Having a nurse is a huge help! Would be lost without her. Gives you more peace of mind, as you don't get to see the Consultant as much. Knowing you can ring the nurse at the slightest worry always puts my mind at rest! Also think the home visits by the nurse are an amazing help!

As a parent of an epileptic child, who has had seizures since the age of 1, we are so lucky to have a nurse like Carolyn. She is a great help to the family, she's always there when you need to talk, either on the phone or a home visit, and she has helped me understand my child's epilepsy as it changes every year as he is growing up.

Carolyn is the first point of contact for families of children with epilepsy. She is approachable and always takes time out to assist with any problems. I have contacted her on numerous occasions and she is always willing to go that one step further.

Faye, my daughter, was diagnosed with epilepsy 2 years ago, after being misdiagnosed for many years. Without Carolyn, our nurse, I don't know what I would have done. She is a massive support and help to me and everyone I know. There should be nurses like her in all areas of the country. Thank you Carolyn for everything you do for Faye and our family.

Our epilepsy nurse is fantastic and I don't know where I would be without her. She has a great relationship with Chloe. Chloe thinks the world of Carolyn, as we all do. If it was not for Carolyn and her help and support Chloe may not be where she is today, as she found it very hard to come to terms with her epilepsy.

The job that Carolyn does is personal to every family. She is a crucial support network, her knowledge is immense and parents need that, plus reassurance when newly diagnosed and ongoing support, as she will always fit you in to talk through worries. She's a wonderful person and I have benefited and so has Ashanti.

Some 3 years after Max had his first seizure, after numerous tests, far too many visits to A&E, numerous medications and years of feeling isolated and alone, we eventually got the support and care of Carolyn Taylor, our epilepsy nurse. At this point, with Carolyn's support, living with epilepsy and Max's learning difficulties started to turn around for the better. Hopefully, NHS trusts will continue to see the benefit of epilepsy specialist nurses and realise the value/expertise of professionals like Carolyn Taylor.

From training families and other caregivers with invaluable training to giving us advice and support on meds, behaviour management, and help fighting for equipment for special needs. She truly is amazing, giving us hope and support where otherwise it would be hard to get. Every family with a child with epilepsy and additional needs should have a Carolyn.