A former politician has tragically died at the age of 36 after spending three years in a coma.
Erica Quaranta passed away on Wednesday (14 May).
In February 2022, she suffered a sudden, devastating stroke that left her fighting for her life.
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Her family spent a long time at her side hoping in vain for a sign of recognition or some small gesture to show she could still hear them.
Erica studied architecture at the University of Parma, in northern Italy.
After graduating, she returned to her native Lecce Province, in Italy’s “heel”.
In addition to working as an architect, she dedicated herself to politics.
She began serving as a councillor in her hometown of Morciano di Leuca in 2019.
Her brief was tourism and entertainment, as reported by Need To Know.
During her term, she played a key role in securing official recognition of Morciano di Leuca as a “tourist town” by the Apulia Regional Council.
Her funeral was held in her hometown yesterday (15 May).
A spokesperson said: “The local council shares in the grief of Erica’s family following her untimely passing.
“‘There are people who, even in silence, leave a lasting mark. Erica was one of them. Her passion, her dedication, and her smile will forever remain in the heart of Morciano.’
“To her family and loved ones, the entire community extends its deepest condolences.”
A 2024 study found that while stroke rates have declined among older adults in the UK, the number of cases in people under 55 has doubled over the past 10 to 20 years.
The UK now sees 20,000 new “young stroke” cases annually.
To reduce the risk of a stroke, experts recommend quitting smoking, eating a balanced diet, exercising, and cutting down on alcohol.
