Sheila: Unlocking the Treatment for PKU

In 1951, a two-year-old infant named Sheila Jones was diagnosed with Phenylketonuria (PKU) at Birmingham Children's Hospital (BCH). Her mother, Mary, refused to accept no treatment for her daughter and sought help from three pioneering doctors. Together, they developed a special formula and Sheila became the first person in the world to receive dietary treatment for PKU. Sheila's contribution to medicine was significant, leading to the introduction of newborn screening and worldwide treatment for PKU. Unfortunately, she was unable to benefit long-term from the treatment. Her story is a testament to her bravery, her family's resilience, and the progress made in treating PKU.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 16 October 2020
Publisher: Brewin Books

In 1951, a two-year-old infant named Sheila Jones was diagnosed with a rare condition called Phenylketonuria (PKU) at Birmingham Children's Hospital (BCH). Despite the lack of treatment options available at the time, her distraught mother, Mary, refused to give up hope. Determined to find a solution, she sought the help of three pioneering doctors at BCH: Dr. Horst Bickel, Dr. John Gerrard, and Dr. Evelyn Hickmans. Working tirelessly in the hospital laboratory, they dedicated themselves to developing a special formula that would provide dietary treatment for Sheila. Their efforts were rewarded when Sheila became the first person in the world to receive such treatment for PKU.

However, little was known about Sheila's life, her family in Birmingham, and the hardships and sacrifices they endured. It is a remarkable story that encompasses the bravery of a little girl, her brothers, and her courageous and tenacious mother. Sheila's contribution to medicine was immense, as her treatment led to the introduction of newborn screening for PKU and the development of worldwide treatment protocols. Unfortunately, Sheila herself was unable to benefit long-term from her treatment due to the limitations of the available technology at the time.

Nevertheless, her legacy continues to be a triumph for all those affected by PKU. Sheila's story, until her passing in Birmingham in 1999, holds significant importance for individuals with PKU, their families, healthcare professionals, and readers interested in the history of medicine. It serves as a reminder of the unwavering determination and resilience of those who face challenges and work tirelessly to make a positive impact on the lives of others.

Weight: 470g
Dimension: 170 x 240 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781858587141
Edition number: ed