AN inspiring teenager who has battled an extremely rare brain condition has organised a charity craft fair in aid of stray cats who desperately need rehoming.

Bethan Gray, 18, lives in Lawford Dale, Manningtree, and attends the Market Field College at the Tendring Education Centre in Clacton.

Since the age of six, Bethan has been under the care of Great Ormond Street Hospital, after developing an illness called Landau Kleffner Syndrome.

The rare childhood disorder is an extreme form of epilepsy and results in serious seizures and the inability to understand or express language.

She was given a lifeline when she was enrolled on a rehabilitation programme with the National Centre for Young People with Epilepsy.

Here she was taught how to shower, be interactive, communicate, and speak, before eventually being put on “revolutionary” medication.

Since then inspiring Bethan has come off her medication, attended Shorefields School in Clacton, and started a hospitality and catering vocational course.

Bethan, who has autism, is also currently learning to drive and works part time in a café in East Bergholt.

Mum Julia Gray, 52, said: “After Bethan was diagnosed, what we took for granted as a family had been ripped apart, and we all needed to start again.

“Freya, our other daughter was only 18 months old at the time and day-to-day living was a constant battle.

Gazette: Bethan's mum Julia Gray (right) with sister Samantha Lloyd Bethan's mum Julia Gray (right) with sister Samantha Lloyd

“Whilst it has been very hard, we always look at what Bethan has achieved and overcome. Bethan’s speech is amazing and GOSH reckon she is one of their success stories.

“Landau Kleffner is a syndrome which you tend to outgrow, but it is what you are left with, and Bethan is on the autistic spectrum, but this is what makes her unique.”

Animal-lover Bethan is now organising a craft fair which is due to take place in Marylands, Orvis Lane, East Bergholt, with all proceeds being donated to the Cat Protection Society.

The event, taking place on Saturday between 10am and 4pm, will feature approximately 25 stalls including a range of craft items.

Julia added: “Through out all this Bethan has never lost her sense of humour and she is a kind girl who has good friends.

“We hope people realise how amazing and special the young adult Bethan has become.”