The family of a healthy 13 year old girl who died suddenly after suffering with 'flu symptoms', have been left devastated by the shocking death of their daughter.

Lauren Menzies, 13, was as her parents described having what seemed to be a normal day watching TV when she was taken critically ill just 12 hours later.

The young girl had been suffering with flu symptoms, but nothing of concern, however little did the family know she had developed, sepsis.

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Lauren’s heartbroken mum and dad, Sarah and Chris, have set up a JustGiving page in their daughter's honour, The Mirror reports, to raise funds for Sepsis research in a bid to raise awareness of the "silent killer" that stuck their daughter.

Speaking about the traumatic hours leading up to her daughter's death, Lauren's mum Sarah said: "Our daughter, Lauren, was a typical cheeky beautiful and healthy 13-year-old girl. Then she caught the flu, which then turned to sepsis.

"One minute she was laid on the settee at home, watching Modern Family and complaining about the flavour of Lucozade she had been bought. Less than 12 hours later she was fighting for her life at Alder Hey.

"A fight that unfortunately she was to lose, less than six days later."

The family want to raise funds for Sepsis Research FEAT, a charity set up in 2013 and which describes the condition as a "hidden killer."

Chris and Sarah added: "We are raising money for Sepsis Research FEAT in memory of our daughter Lauren, who died from sepsis aged 13.

"We want to concentrate our fundraising efforts going forward towards research into treatments for sepsis. That is why we have decided to join with Sepsis Research FEAT in their fundraising initiatives: to improve outcomes for those affected by sepsis."

Colin Graham, Chief Operating Officer at Sepsis Research FEAT, said: "A huge thank you to Chris and Sarah for generously raising money to help Sepsis Research FEAT’s work.

"Fundraising activities like this play a vital role in the fight against sepsis. As Sepsis Research FEAT marks its 10th anniversary this year, we’re asking you to consider joining Chris and Sarah in being part of our birthday celebrations and raising money to support an important cause.

"Our Give Us 10! campaign offers a range of fundraising activity suggestions for individuals and groups to take part in.

You can make a donation to Chris and Sarah’s fundraiser here.

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