Main image via Daily Mail
Imagine looking at photos of you playing at the park, blowing out the candles on your birthday cake, or receiving an award for doing well in school and instead of smiling fondly at them, you realise that you don’t remember any of the events that you see.
That would be really tragic wouldn’t it?
Well, that’s exactly what happened to 22-year-old, Antony Holly, who had his memory from birth up to the age of 16 erased. It wasn’t just the fond childhood memories either, he even had to be reminded of the most basic things such as taking a shower and the identity of his mother and sisters!
Image via Triangle News
The cause of his memory loss was a rare condition that causes severe inflammation of the brain called encephalitis, which Holly contracted from severe sinus infection, meningitis, and sepsis.
Children, the elderly, and people with a weak immune system are the most vulnerable, and depending on the part of the brain affected, encephalitis can also cause personality changes and seizures.
Image via Romford Recorder
While encephalitis can be treated and, like Holly, many people fully recover from the illness, unfortunately for him, he hasn’t gotten his memories back. He has however, managed to lead a normal life since his recovery, successfully returning to work and building a relationship.
Info via LAD Bible