A mum has praised “exceptional” medics at an under-threat minor injuries unit who saved her son’s life after he suffered an allergic reaction to a cookie.
Jensen Strachan was unaware of his allergy before taking unwell on Saturday afternoon.
The 15-year-old from Aberdeenshire began suffering breathlessness and told his mum “his head felt numb” as he began to rapidly deteriorate.
Mum Gillian was able to rush the teenager from their home in Inverallochy to Fraserburgh’s minor injuries unit where he then collapsed in the car park.
SuppliedThe mum said that the nurses were “exceptional” and immediately began treating Jensen.
After being assessed, it was revealed he had suffered an anaphylactic reaction and was airlifted to Aberdeen Royal Infirmary for treatment.
Anaphylaxis is a life-threatening allergic reaction which can happen extremely quickly, and can be caused by things such as food or insect stings.
“When we got to the hospital, we were told that the nurses and doctor at Fraserburgh saved Jensen’s life.
“They said he would not have survived had they not treated him when they did”, she told STV News.
Gillian Cardno-strachan via SuppliedMs Cardno-Strachan said the “terrifying” situation opened her eyes, adding that her family is in “eternal debt” to the NHS.
“If anything it highlights how important urgent care is, I was unaware of things the staff in minor injuries actually do outside of cut fingers and such.
“But they do so much more in the community, even my neighbour who works at a prison said they have to be called out to help with injuries there.
“They do so much and it isn’t getting considered when it comes to deciding on cut,” she said.
Gillian has said she will now be speaking with her local councillors after the night-time closure of three minor injury units in the north east of Scotland – including the Fraserburgh one – was voted through in March.
SuppliedThe 24-hour clinics – in Peterhead and Huntly – will also be reduced, to save money.
“I have spoken to local councillors and without doubt I will be at the local meetings.
“I hope that with the use of an EpiPen Jensen will never need that life saving care ever again but I am wiling to fight for everyone who might need the care at some point,” Ms Cardno-Strachan said.
A spokesperson for Aberdeenshire HSCP said: “Whilst we cannot comment on specific circumstances. We would always take an opportunity to praise our staff.
“Making sure that people receive the right care, at the right time and in the right place is absolutely key to ensuring people get the best healthcare outcomes.
“If people need emergency care they should always dial 999 and ask for the ambulance service”
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