Our Story
About Us
On the 3rd of May 2019, we lost our beloved son, Peter, as a result of his epilepsy. His death was sudden and unexpected. Peter was 21 years of age and was diagnosed with epilepsy at the age of 17.
The first time we became aware of SUDEP was as a result of the named cause of death on his death certificate. At no point while Peter was alive did any of the clinicians involved in Peter’s epilepsy care mention SUDEP or provide us with any SUDEP literature.
If we had known about SUDEP from the start we believe it would have made a significant impact on medication adherence for one. It would have also enabled us to take safeguarding measures knowing about SUDEP and the risks associated with nocturnal seizures. We would have made adaptations to his sleeping arrangements and used a seizure detection device and an anti-suffocation pillow. We would have also had a far better understanding of Peter’s vulnerability whilst being away from home at university.
It is too late for us but we are passionate and driven to ensure that no other potentially preventable death happens.
Our Goals
1
Support
2
Raise Awareness
3
Advocate
Meet The Team
Joanne Doody
Chair
Hi. I am Co-founder of the foundation, set up in 2019 after our son Peter passed from Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). I am an experienced qualified, accredited counsellor which I hope offers added holistic support to those we aim to serve. I successfully set up and managed my own businesses for over 15 years and believe these skills will assist me greatly in the work I do as Chair and in the day to day running of the foundation.
Andrew Doody
Treasurer
As Peter’s dad, I know first-hand how it can be for a parent with a son or daughter who has epilepsy. I am a retired Police Officer with over 30 years experience in safeguarding others but unfortunately I was unable to safeguard Peter. If I only I knew then what I know now. From personal experience, I am very aware of the lack of provision there is in place for young adults with epilepsy and I am determined to do all that I can to put this right.
Bev High
Charity Secretary
I lost my own son, Chris to SUDEP and wholeheartedly support the Peter Doody Foundation and what it is trying to achieve. I currently work for my local council as a senior administrator for the children's service and I organise panels, meetings, take minutes or anything else that needs to be done. I hope I can use these skills to support the aims of the PDF!
Ellie Shepherd
Social Media & Trustee
Hi I’m Ellie! I am currently in my final year at Northumbria University, and have recently just completed my year out as marketing assistant at Dawsongroup. Having full responsibility of the social media interactions within this company will hopefully prove beneficial to my role in the foundation. As one of Pete’s close friends in high school, raising awareness of SUDEP is especially important to me and in bringing awareness to more young adults.
Louise Moriarty
Head of Fundraising & Trustee
I am passionate about my role within the Foundation as Head of Fundraising. As Regional Crew Manager, for Europe’s largest leading airline I have a vast skill set and strong worth ethic. I thrive on challenges to make successes. I am equally committed within my role at The Peter Doody Foundation and to support those who are in need of us the most.
Sophie De Luca
Social Media & Trustee
Harry Doody
Social Media & Trustee
Hi I’m Harry Peter’s brother. Having a sibling living with epilepsy can be very challenging and upsetting. Having witnessed numerous seizures I know the impact these had not only on my brother but also myself. From my experience I want to help others increase their knowledge and awareness of epilepsy and also offer support. I would like to normalise epilepsy and create a future where those living with epilepsy don’t have to miss out.
Peter Doody
CEO (in spirit)
Without whom none of this would possible......
A Tribute to Peter
Two of the three accompanying songs in the video are Peter’s own and the third is a remix of his. Proud beyond words…
I love and miss you sweetheart.
Eternal love, Mum xxx