English cricketer Matt Dunn's daughter dies aged 2 from severe form of epilepsy

16 March 2023 , 10:45

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Surrey bowler Matt Dunn (Image: Ashley Allen/Getty Images for Surrey CCC)

Surrey bowler Matt Dunn's young daughter Florence has tragically passed away at the age of just two.

Florence suffered with a rare and severe form of epilepsy known as Dravet Syndrome, which is described by the NHS as a "rare, life-limiting and devastating genetic neurological condition".

In a post on his Instagram story, Dunn shared an image of Florence and wrote: "You will forever be in my heart". While a separate post on an account dedicated to Florence read: "Our beautiful girl gained her angel wings and was lost to SUDEP (sudden unexpected death in epilipsy).

"To find the words at this time is almost impossible. You were so incredibly loved and the imprint you have left on so many lives is something to behold, you lit up any room you entered. We will be forever so proud of you and your fight baby girl."

A statement from the county read: "Everyone at Surrey is greatly saddened by the news of the passing of Matt Dunn's daughter Florence. Our thoughts are with Matt and his wife Jessica, who bravely managed Florence's Dravet Syndrome – a severe form of epilepsy."

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Surrey's director of cricket Alec Stewart offered his condolences to the family, saying: "We are all absolutely devastated to hear of Florence's passing and our very best wishes are with the whole Dunn family. We will provide Matt and Jessica with all the support that we can."

Dunn's two-year-old daughter Florence has tragically passed away (Luke Walker/Getty Images for Surrey CCC)

The entire cricket community has also come together to offer condolences to Dunn and his family, with Yorkshire saying: "Sending our love and thoughts to the Dunn family at this incredibly hard time."

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to Matt and his family," added Essex. "Sending our love and strength at this sad time."

Dunn has played for home county Surrey his entire career, making his debut back in 2010. The 30-year-old fast bowler has also represented the England under-19s and the England Lions.

Matthew Cooper