'Remarkable' mum Hannah Deacon who campaigned for son's medicinal cannabis dies aged 45 | ITV News Central
A mum who led the campaign for medicinal cannabis to be legalised has died at the age of just 45, in what the family has described as a "devastating loss".
Hannah Deacon from Kenilworth, Warwickshire successfully campaigned for her son to be granted a licence to use cannabis oil in 2018.
Hannah's son Alfie was one one of the first people in the UK to receive the treatment. Before he started, he was having up to 150 fits a week.
In 2018 Ms Deacon's campaign, backed by the actor Sir Patrick Stewart, led to a change in the law allowing medical cannabis to be prescribed in the UK.
The family has paid tribute to Hannah and her campaigning, saying: "Her fight to find treatment for her son Alfie’s rare and severe epilepsy led to a breakthrough...and ultimately changed the law".
A family statement said: "We are heartbroken to share that Hannah Deacon died on Tuesday 6 May, surrounded by those who loved her, after a short and brutal illness. She was just 45.
"This devastating loss to Hannah’s beloved partner Drew, and children Alfie and Annie, is impossible to put into words.
"Hannah was remarkable: determined, tenacious, and fiercely compassionate.
"Her fight to find treatment for her son Alfie’s rare and severe epilepsy led to a breakthrough that changed his life and ultimately changed the law.
"She went on to transform the lives of thousands of patients and families, never stopping in her work to push for better access, better care, and a better understanding of medical cannabis.
"More than anything, Hannah’s most proud and important role was being a mum. Alfie and Annie were her world. She adored them. Everything she fought for came from her enduring love for them and wish to make the world kinder and fairer.
"Hannah was our brave, beautiful partner, daughter, sister, and friend. She made us laugh, made us think, and made us feel stronger just by being there. All of us are better for knowing her.
"We only wish we could have had more time.
"We will share more in the days ahead to honour Hannah’s life, her work, and the legacy she leaves behind."
