UPDATE: A desperate plea from a Glasgow mother has emerged as her six-year-old daughter, Brie McCann, urgently awaits a life-saving heart transplant. Jodie McCann is imploring the NHS to transfer Brie from Glasgow’s Royal Hospital for Children to Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) in London, emphasizing that “everything is too little, too late.”
Brie’s health has rapidly declined, prompting her family to advocate for her immediate transfer. She has been hospitalized since July due to Ebstein’s anomaly, a rare heart condition affecting blood flow. Time is of the essence; if a donor is found while Brie remains in Glasgow, she will require an air ambulance to reach London for surgery, a situation Jodie describes as a significant barrier.
Jodie shared the heart-wrenching experience of a recent failed transplant after being prepared for surgery at GOSH, only to be sent back to Glasgow at the last minute. “I wanted to stay down in Great Ormond Street… but they said they couldn’t accommodate that,” she lamented. This latest setback has left the family feeling hopeless as they navigate the complexities of Brie’s care.
Following a meeting on December 1, 2023, Jodie was informed that Brie would remain in Glasgow, despite their belief that discussions would focus on her transfer. “I thought the meeting was to discuss getting us down to GOSH and proceed,” Jodie explained. She expressed concern that Brie’s deteriorating condition could hinder her chances for a timely transplant.
The family has rallied support, with friends reaching out to NHS officials to expedite Brie’s transfer. Jodie fears that delays could be devastating, stating, “Everything is too little too late now… she’s really struggling to even move her limbs.”
In response to the family’s distress, a spokesperson for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde acknowledged the challenging circumstances. “We fully recognize this is an extremely challenging and distressing time for the family,” the spokesperson stated. They reassured that the hospital continues to provide Brie with the best possible care locally while coordinating closely with GOSH.
Meanwhile, GOSH officials emphasize that Brie is receiving equivalent care in Glasgow and are closely monitoring her condition. “We see every day how difficult it is for the children and their families who are waiting for a transplant,” a spokesperson commented.
As the McCann family faces this dire situation, they continue to advocate for Brie’s immediate transfer, hoping to eliminate the travel barrier that could hinder her access to life-saving care.
The urgency of this situation cannot be overstated. With every passing moment, Brie’s health hangs in the balance, underscoring the pressing need for action.
