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Saarah Ahmed Foundation aims to raise hidden disability awareness

BBC Saarah AhmedBBC
Before her death, Saarah was studying sociology and psychology A-levels and dreamed of becoming a neuroscientist

A foundation has been launched in memory of a young woman to help raise awareness of hidden disabilities.

Saarah Ahmed, from Carlisle, had a form of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) so rare only about 15 people in the UK have it. She died on 13 April this year.

The 20-year-old had shared on social media the daily struggles and battles she faced in a bid to educate others.

Now, her family has set up Saarah's Foundation to support people with EDS and hidden disabilities in Cumbria.

Shefaly Begum, Saarah's mum, said: "This foundation is for rare diseases and rare diseases like Saarah's and it also involves hidden disabilities.

"This is something Saarah wanted to do and we're going to carry on with her legacy."

Saarah Ahmed
Saarah was a finalist in Miss Universe Great Britain and used her platform to educate others about living with EDS

Aminur Ahmed, Saarah's brother, said: "Ehler's is described as a hidden disability but we don't want people to hide it, be more open about it.

"Our aim, as the foundation is now officially launched, is to help people individually and just allow everyone to be more open and hopefully the message spreads."

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