The family of Kailah May has revealed the cause of their daughter and sister’s tragic death

Kailah May will be farewelled on Friday after the 19-year-old drowned in her backyard swimming pool.

THE family of Kailah May, 19, who tragically drowned in the family swimming pool last week, revealed she died from an epileptic seizure.

Sister Tyrah, 22, told the NT News that their 14-year-old brother, Marley, discovered Kailah at the bottom of the pool and called out to their mum, who tried to resuscitate her.

Tyrah said her brother was a hero.

“We are so proud with how strong he is,” she said.

“He had to handle so much on that day.

“He’s still living like a little kid.”

A funeral for Kailah will be held on Friday.

Kailah was diagnosed with epilepsy last September just after she turned 18.

Mum Tara, 42, said she initially didn’t realise how serious the condition was.

“We had no idea about seizures,” she said.

Kailah had epilepsy her whole life but started having seizures when she became an adult.

“There isn’t enough information out there about epilepsy,” Tara said.

“(Kailah) didn’t really understand it herself.

“Who would of thought purple was the colour for epilepsy?”

The 19-year-old would drive to the beach and watch the sunset religiously.

But her life changed when she lost some independence due to her condition.

“It was difficult for her to sustain a lifestyle she wanted,” Tara said.

The Larrakia, Woolwonga and Marri Ammu woman touched the hearts of many in her short life.

Tara described her daughter as a beautiful old soul.

“Her feet didn’t touch the ground, she just had this glide about the way she walks through anywhere with such grace and beautiful posture,” she said.

“She was full of love and had an infectious personality.

“The brightest light that picked us up.

“She wasn’t afraid to try things.”

Father James May posing with his girls

The May family reflected on Kailah’s confidence and kind nature.

“She wanted good for everybody,” Tara said.

“She was the light in everyone’s darkness.

“She touched them in ways that made them believe in themselves.

“She uplifted the people around her.”

Kailah has left a lasting legacy in the community.

The family was inundated with love and support and have banded together to stay strong for Kailah.

“I just miss her so much,” Tara said. “I feel like she’s gonna come in at anytime.”

Tara said Kailah and her sister Tyrah had a very close relationship.

“Each day is a new day, but I still feel like the floor has been ripped off beneath my feet,” Tara said.

Originally published as The family of Kailah May has revealed the cause of their daughter and sister’s tragic death