Father of meningitis victim, 18, tells of family’s ‘immeasurable’ devastation | Meningitis

The father of an 18-year-old student who died of meningitis Outbreak in Kent said the devastation to his family was “immeasurable” and called for better protection of young people.

Juliette Kenny died last Saturday, a day after she first showed symptoms of vomiting and discoloration of her cheeks, said her father, Michael Kenny.

He said his daughter was “fit, healthy and strong” and had completed her PE A level practical assessment two days before her death.

Juliette Kenny, a sixth form pupil at Queen Elizabeth High School in Faversham, is one of two pupils who died after the meningitis B outbreak in the county.

Kenny said “no family should have to experience this pain and tragedy” and that “this can be avoided”, adding that he wanted his daughter’s legacy to be one of “lasting change”.

In a statement to the Press Association, he said: “We are incredibly proud parents of two wonderful daughters.

“Juliette is a force in this world. With her magnificent positive energy, she transmits fun, love and happiness to those around her and she continues to do so now.

“The devastation of his loss to us, his family and friends is immeasurable.

“Sharing stories of empathy, warmth and fun that she has created is helping her family and friends get through this time. Her energy continues to inspire the people who love her to find a way.”

Kenny said he first became aware his daughter was ill when she vomited in the early hours of March 13. She had no other symptoms at that time.

He said: “On Friday morning we took her to our local emergency center as discoloration appeared on her cheeks. She was given antibiotics and sent by ambulance to A&E.

“Juliette fought bravely for hours, but despite fantastic NHS hospital staff who fought alongside her, meningitis took her from us less than 12 hours later.

“We were with her at the end, and the last sounds she heard were the voices of those who loved her telling her how much she was loved and cherished.”

Alongside the Meningitis Research Foundation, Kenny and his family are calling on the UK to take urgent action to improve access to MenB vaccination for adolescents and young people.

“No family should experience this pain and tragedy,” he said. “This is preventable. There are young people who are currently struggling with this and others who are still at risk.

“As parents, we knew our children would change the world and be a force for good. The work to protect young people has begun. It must be more.

“Juliet’s impact on this world must be lasting change. Now is the time to ensure families are safe from the consequences of meningitis B.”