Peter Saull, BBC East Midlands’s political editor, recently reported on the ongoing struggle of Catherine Cox from Keyworth in Nottinghamshire, who faces the daunting question of who will care for her children once she is no longer around. The heart-wrenching story revolves around her son, Matthew, now 23, who was born with a myriad of conditions, including autism, ADHD, epilepsy, and various learning disabilities. These challenges stemmed from Catherine taking the epilepsy drug sodium valproate during her pregnancy, a decision that is now discouraged.
The impact of sodium valproate on unborn children has affected thousands, with reports suggesting that since the 1970s, numerous children in the UK have been left with disabilities attributed to the drug. Guidance for doctors underscores the risks of valproate during pregnancy unless no safer option exists and emphasizes the importance of a thorough risk discussion. Despite this, Catherine was reassured of the drug’s safety before starting fertility treatment, only to later discover its devastating consequences on her son’s life.
Matthew, who now holds a job at a local bakery, remains heavily reliant on his mother for support. Catherine’s tireless advocacy for compensation has gained little traction with various governments over the years. She expressed frustration at the lack of action, pointing out how the passing years have only compounded their struggles. The delays in addressing the issue were recently brought up in Parliament by MP James Naish, prompting a promise from Prime Minister Keir Starmer to provide an update on the matter. Despite years of setbacks, Catherine continues to hope for a positive resolution, emphasizing the importance of society’s duty to protect its most vulnerable, especially those affected by valproate.
The push for compensation gained momentum with a report by Patient Safety Commissioner Henrietta Hughes in February 2024, highlighting the need to support those harmed by valproate financially and otherwise. Recommendations included a housing grant for victims, improved recognition of special educational needs, and personal apologies to affected individuals. However, progress has been slow, leaving families like the Coxes in a state of limbo, hoping for overdue recompense for the irreversible impact of sodium valproate
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