That was the message from Northern Ireland’s Chief Medical Officer Dr Michael McBride at the launch of the Allergy NI Young Person of the Year Award in Hillsborough Castle today.
The award is in memory of Jane McVeigh, a 17 year old, who died in December 2006 as a result of anaphylaxis due to nut allergy.
Dr McBride said: “We have all been deeply saddened by Jane’s death. And yet her death has inspired many of us to look again at how an allergy affects our lives and those dear to us.
“As Chief Medical Officer, it has focused me on what more can be done to raise awareness of severe allergies and management of anaphylaxis – not just by healthcare professionals and ambulance service but also by schools, siblings, parents, extended families and friends. Each has an important contribution to make to this condition which people live with on a daily basis.
“We will shortly be issuing guidance to healthcare professionals and we are working with the Department of Education to promote effective management of anaphylaxis in schools.”
Dr McBride continued: “I earnestly hope that Jane’s family will take some comfort from the fact that her circumstances helped to inform the new guidance, training and promotional material for healthcare professionals.
“Jane was an extra-ordinary girl who has left an important legacy to us all. A legacy realised here today by the courage of her family.It is truly fitting that this award should be created in Jane McVeigh’s name.”
The event was attended by around 80 guests, including representatives from medical and youth organisations; Department of Education; school nursing; the McVeigh family; and representatives from Allergy NI.
Notes to Editors:
- Allergy N I is a local charity formed in 2005, to support individuals and families with serious and potentially life threatening allergies by providing education, information, support, campaigning on their behalf and promoting research.
- The winner of the annual award will receive a silver trophy known as the “Jane McVeigh Memorial Cup”. It is hoped the Award will encourage children and young people to raise awareness of serious and potentially life threatening allergies.
- In December 2006, Ms Jane McVeigh (17) a student at Victoria College died from anaphylaxis arising from her allergy to peanuts.
- In Northern Ireland the Belfast Trust provides the only integrated, comprehensive allergy service for adults and children. A weekly clinic is held in the Royal Hospitals. The main focus is on severe, life threatening, complex allergic diseases.
- A total of 2,561 patients have been treated at the Allergy Clinic during the period from from April 2007 to November 2007. Of these patients there have been 595 new patients and 281 new paediatric patients. 1240 were review patients and 445 paediatric review patients. The figures since November 2007 have not yet been collated.
- Media queries to DHSSPS Press Office on 02890 520074, or out of hours contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 076 9971 5440 and your call will be returned.
