For Immediate Release
Following the news about the lifting of the suspension of pediatric heart surgery at Leeds General Infirmary the Children’s Heart Federation would like to issue the following statement:
CHF fully supported the decision to suspend pediatric heart surgery at Leeds General Infirmary because of safety concerns at the unit. CHF supports the aim to reinstate surgery once all concerned in the subsequent investigations are fully satisfied that it is safe to do so. We trust that the investigation has been thorough, independent and not overly hasty.
We have been concerned by the confusion caused by the lack of sufficient explanation regarding the decision to suspend surgery. This has added to the worry and fear of parents whose children are being treated for congenital heart conditions at the LGI from Yorkshire and other parts of the country.
We ask therefore, that clear explanations of the decisions taken be provided and full disclosure on the detail of the investigations of the last week; in order to reassure worried parents of the thoroughness of the investigations and that surgery is safe.
We understand that for many people involved this is a very emotive issue and we call for all involved to respect the views of others, particularly those of parents who have been brave enough to express their concerns in public. We look forward to seeing an end to the harassment and bullying leveled at these concerned parents and for them to get the support they undoubtedly deserve.
CHF will continue to speak out for parents and children with heart disease and aim to give a voice to those who find it difficult to be heard.
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