Sponsored: ‘I Would Walk 500 Miles’: A Heartwarming Journey of Allergy Support in the Scottish Highlands

Posted: 5th December 2023

In the heart of the Scottish Highlands, nestled in a picturesque village, lies Lybster Primary, a tiny school facing an unexpected challenge. When an inquiry for Anaphylaxis Kitts from this quaint institution reached our desks, we were left both curious and intrigued. Little did we know that this would be the beginning of a heartwarming journey that transcends distance and brings communities together.


Chapter 1: The Mystery and The Pursuit

The first question on our minds was, “How did a school so far north – in Lybster – find out about us?” The answer, it turned out, was that an allergy parent named Catrina stumbled upon our Instagram content! Catrina told her child’s school (Lybster Primary) about our Anaphylaxis Kitts, and together they took a proactive step – reaching out to their local council to seek funding! It was a bold move, demonstrating the school’s commitment to the well-being of its students…


“I accessed funding from Halsary wind farm fund which is a charitable fund provided by Scottish Power Renewables, the company that owns and operates the Halsary Windfarm in Caithness.

Having the Kitt in school brings comfort to me as an allergy parent, it is in a fixed location and is easy to access. Adrenaline pens are often short-dated and there’s often supply issues so it can be stressful trying to ensure that we have in-date pens both in school and at home. Kitt Medical provide the automatic re-supply of pens before they expire.

Anyone can develop sudden allergies and having both the adult and junior ensures that anyone suffering from an allergic reaction has fast access to adrenaline. I really hope one day soon we will see Kitts in all educational institutions and public places. The team are doing an amazing job and are already saving lives. ”

— Catrina Drummond (Allergy Mum)

Chapter 2: The Power of Wind and Community

As fate would have it, the winds of change blew in a surprising direction. The local windfarm, a symbol of renewable energy and community investment, stepped in to guarantee funds for Kitt Medical’s Anaphylaxis Kitts – not just for a year, but for the next three. This unexpected alliance showcased the power of local businesses and organizations coming together to address a pressing need within their community.

Halsary wind farm


Chapter 3: Making It Work

When Lybster Primary shared their story with us, there was no question – we had to make it work. The logistics of delivering an Anaphylaxis Kitt to a remote location in the Scottish Highlands were certainly challenging, but the collective determination to provide essential allergy support made the task less daunting. We ended up being able to provide specialised logistics and delivery for the Kitts and adrenaline pens all the way up to Lybster, who sent us some amazing photos once installed!


“As Headteacher of Lybster Primary School, I totally support having the Anaphylaxis Kitt in school.

I would like to express my sincere thanks and appreciation to Catrina Drummond and the Parent Council for making it possible for Lybster Primary School to receive the Anaphylaxis Kitt. Catrina organised the funding application with the Parent Council, and they have agreed that they will apply for funding to cover the costs to have the Kitt in school for at least the next three years!

By having this Kitt in school, it means that if anyone within our school community has an allergic reaction they can receive immediate medical help within a short period of time and this could potentially save their life.”

— Denise Walsh, Headteacher of Lybster Primary School

Lybster Primary School


Conclusion:

The story of Lybster Primary locally funding Anaphylaxis Kitts is more than a business transaction; it’s a testament to the compassion and unity that can arise when a community rallies together for a common cause. The Anaphylaxis Kitt service that Lybster Primary now has access to not only safeguards the school staff, students, and visitors but also extends a protective allergy shield over the entire village- with emergency adrenaline pens on subscription, combined with online CPD-accredited training.

In an era where social media connects us and renewable energy fuels our communities, this tale from the Scottish Highlands serves as a reminder that, indeed, we would walk 500 miles – or more – to ensure the safety and well-being of those we care about.

Categories: BSA News