The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
A South Holland couple are aiming to raise awareness about a charity that has the potential to save lives.
Philip and Heather James, of Fleet Hargate, are championing the cause for the Medical Detection Dogs charity.
They have launched an online petition which is aiming to get 10,000 signatures to ensure the charity’s lack of funding will spark a response from government.
Heather said: “My husband and I recently went to a talk about the charity and were overwhelmed by the amazing work the dogs can be trained to do.
“This can help the NHS and, indirectly, us all as dogs have an amazing sense of smell and they can be trained so that humans can harness this ability.
“Medical Detection Dogs can detect certain cancers in urine samples at an early stage and with a high degree of accuracy.
“Dogs have also been trained to assist people with diabetes, narcolepsy, epilepsy and serious allergies to alert them when they are in danger.”
Peter added: “This charity can be lifesaving and can also improve the lives of individuals by giving them greater security and independence.
“It helps their confidence and general well being and in some cases enables them to lead a normal life.
“It has made possible the early detection of some cancers that are difficult to pick up and can speed up and increase the accuracy of test results, thus saving the NHS money.
“It receives nothing from government or Lottery funds so we have set up a petition for this to be discussed in parliament.
“Its worthwhile work could be extended to help so many more people if given more money and recognition.”
The petition is available to sign by visiting www.petition.parliament.uk/petitions/175828
