Juliette Kenny was a vibrant teenager, excelling in her studies and eagerly anticipating the future. Just days before tragedy struck, she’d successfully completed a practical assessment for her PE A-level, a testament to her dedication and athleticism.
The first sign of trouble appeared subtly – a discolouration on her cheeks. Her father recounts taking her to a local emergency drop-in clinic on Friday morning, initially unaware of the danger lurking beneath the surface. Despite showing no other immediate symptoms, doctors administered antibiotics and transported her to the hospital via ambulance.
Meningitis B is a ruthless adversary, capable of escalating from mild discomfort to a life-threatening crisis within hours. Juliette’s condition deteriorated with frightening speed, mirroring the disease’s insidious nature. The medical team fought tirelessly, but the infection proved relentless.
“Juliette fought bravely for hours,” her father shared, his voice heavy with grief. “But despite the fantastic NHS hospital staff fighting alongside her, meningitis took her from us less than 12 hours later.” The family remained at her side, filling her final moments with the comforting sounds of their love and adoration.
The devastation is immeasurable, a pain no family should ever endure. Her father spoke of the profound loss, emphasizing the enduring impact of Juliette’s vibrant spirit. Sharing memories of her empathy, warmth, and infectious joy is now a source of solace for those left behind.
Those who knew Juliette remember her as a beacon of positivity, radiating beautifully positive energy. Her family now hopes to channel their grief into lasting change, advocating for wider access to vital vaccinations.
The tragedy has prompted a surge in demand for meningitis B vaccinations and antibiotics, with some pharmacies and vaccination sites in Kent temporarily depleted of supplies. Over 8,500 antibiotics and 1,600 jabs were distributed in the region alone as people sought preventative measures.
Juliette’s family is now working with the Meningitis Research Foundation to urge the government to expand access to the menB vaccine for teenagers and young adults. Currently, many born before 2015 are unprotected unless they’ve received the vaccine privately, a cost that can reach £240 for the complete course.
Her grandmother, struggling to find the words to express her sorrow, simply stated the unbearable truth: the loss is too profound for speech. The family, having been exposed during Juliette’s hospital stay, are now all undergoing preventative antibiotic treatment.
