“His actions deserve recognition, and I would love to see him receive some appreciation for going above and beyond his responsibilities”

A Rotherham man with epilepsy has praised a McDonald's employee for saving his life, after he suffered a series of seizures.

20-year-old Tyler Talbot had his first seizure on his 18th birthday, following which he was diagnosed with epilepsy which affects the brain and causes repeated seizures.

Tyler Talbot wants to thank a heroic McDonald's worker who helped him when he had a seizure | Submitted

placeholder image — Tyler Talbot wants to thank a heroic McDonald's worker who helped him when he had a seizure | Submitted

Since his diagnosis, Tyler has experienced random, unpredictable episodes due to his condition.

His most recent episode took place in Rotherham a couple of weeks ago.

Tyler was out on his own when he started to feel unwell, and rushed into a nearby McDonald’s to ask for help.

Luckily, he was met by an employee whose calm and quick response helped ensure Tyler’s safety.

“I genuinely believe that his actions saved my life,” said Tyler.

Tyler experienced 25 seizure episodes in the McDonald’s store, through which the employee was incredibly helpful. Tyler says the employee supported and protected his head with his jumper, monitored his breathing and immediately called an ambulance.

Knowing what to do in these crucial moments can make a life-changing difference for someone experiencing a seizure.

Tyler hopes sharing his story will help to raise awareness about epilepsy, which is estimated to affect one in 100 people in the UK, according to Epilepsy Action.

He also wants to raise awareness about epilepsy more broadly.

Tyler explained that the condition can be brought on by a range of factors, not just flashing lights, which he says is a common misconception surrounding the disorder.

“It’s not just having a seizure in hospital and then being released,” he said, “It can be so draining and can affect your mental health in the long term.”

Tyler wants to congratulate the heroic worker for making an enormous difference during what was a frightening and potentially life-threatening situation.

He said: “I cannot thank him enough for what he did for me. His actions deserve recognition, and I would love to see him receive some appreciation for going above and beyond his responsibilities.”

You can find information on what to do if someone has a seizure on the NHS website.