Clarke Willmott Celebrates MBE Honour for Encephalitis International CEO

National law firm Clarke Willmott LLP has congratulated Dr Ava Easton, chief executive of Encephalitis International, on being awarded an MBE in the New Year Honours list for her outstanding contribution to supporting people affected by encephalitis.

The firm is a corporate supporter and innovation partner of the charity, helping to raise awareness of encephalitis, a neurological disease that affects brain function and can cause long-term cognitive, physical and emotional consequences if not treated promptly.

“We are delighted to celebrate Dr Easton on being awarded an MBE for her exceptional dedication to supporting people affected by encephalitis and advancing fundraising and research initiatives,” said James Edmondson, partner in Clarke Willmott’s clinical negligence team.

“Encephalitis can be a devastating condition with long-term effects. Dr Easton’s leadership is making a meaningful impact on patients and their families.”

In 2013, Dr Easton identified the need for a global awareness day for encephalitis and was instrumental in leading the launch of World Encephalitis Day in 2014. Since then, the campaign has reached more than 215 million people worldwide.

This year’s World Encephalitis Day, taking place on February 22, will see Clarke Willmott once again supporting the campaign through awareness initiatives and fundraising activities.

“Through founding World Encephalitis Day, raising awareness, improving patient care and supporting vital research, Dr Easton has transformed the outlook for people affected by encephalitis,” added James Edmondson.

“Her tireless dedication and leadership make her truly deserving of this well-earned MBE.”

Dr Ava Easton is a leading encephalitis expert and author of Life After Encephalitis. She is a senior honorary fellow at the University of Liverpool and a researcher and global authority on patient outcomes and quality of life for those affected by the condition.

In the UK, up to 6,000 new cases of encephalitis are diagnosed annually. While anyone can develop the condition, the very young and the elderly are at greatest risk.

Clarke Willmott is a national law firm with regional offices in Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, London, Manchester, Southampton and Taunton.