Posted on 13th Feb
National children’s charity Societi, the UK Foundation for Kawasaki disease, has unveiled GB trampoline gymnast world champion Corey Walkes as its ambassador.
Corey was diagnosed with Kawasaki disease aged 2½ and, following his sporting successes, wants to help Winthorpe-based Societi Foundation grow awareness of this increasingly common, serious disease — awareness which will reduce the risk of children suffering lifelong heart damage.
The foundation said Kawasaki disease is the leading cause of acquired heart disease in children in the UK. With more than 1,500 hospital admissions for children affected by Kawasaki disease expected this year, parents need to know about it in the same way they know about other childhood diseases like meningitis and measles.
A spokesperson said: “Knowing about Kawasaki disease means children can receive faster diagnosis and prompt treatment, helping to protect their hearts from this sinister disease.”
Corey explained: Kawasaki disease is little known by parents and professionals, but it’s becoming more common.
“After personally experiencing this disease and overcoming it, I’m determined to increase awareness of Kawasaki disease and the challenges often faced by parents, like my mum and dad, when their child becomes sick.
“I also want to show young people affected that it shouldn’t hold them back. Try everything and discover what you love. You never know, you might represent your country one day!”
His mum, Pippa Walkes, added: “We never have dreamed that Corey would take part in any sport after being so poorly. He is an incredibly determined individual and we could not be more proud of him.
“I’m delighted that he has chosen to work with Societi to increase awareness of Kawasaki disease. It was a dark time when he was so unwell, over 20 years ago now, and I wish we’d had the support of an organisation like Societi at the time.”
Awareness of Kawasaki Disease remains low among parents and doctors in the UK, and Societi is on a mission to make everyone with children aware of it.
Rachael McCormack, Societi founder, said “Low awareness of Kawasaki Disease means it’s often initially misdiagnosed, putting children’s hearts at risk. And that’s exactly what happened to Corey.
“Corey is an inspiration, having achieved so much. We’re simply thrilled to have him as ambassador for Societi.
“His willingness to share his story and experiences, and campaign with us to share knowledge with doctors and families will contribute to quicker diagnosis and treatment.
“It’ll directly reduce the risk of serious lifelong heart damage in children facing Kawasaki Disease — that’s our mission, every day. We’re so grateful for his incredible support.”
To hear more about Corey’s story. visit https://youtu.be/Il1ipDnKrro
