Mum forced to make 24-mile trips to hospital for disabled son's 'only source of food'
"I was told by the hospital that their patients are a priority, but my son is my priority and I feel overlooked. I don't know what to do."
A mum has been forced to make 24-mile round trips to a major Scots hospital to pick up an "emergency supply" of vital medication for her disabled son's "only source of food".
Nicole Barrett has had to pay for taxis five days in a row from her Newton Mearns home to the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow amid the supply shortage.
The mum-of-two told our sister title Glasgow Live little Macaulay cannot walk, stand, talk or eat solid foods so is prescribed a nutritional food supplement called Paediasure Plus.
Last week she was told the latest prescription was ready to pick up at her local pharmacy, but claims she was handed only 12 bottles of Paediasure Plus rather than the usual 111.
After spending £22 each day for nearly a week, only being able to get one day's supply at a time, Nicole admits she has been left "unable to plan long-term" while "gambling" with her son's health.
Speaking to Glasgow Live, she said: "I have another child who is disabled and it's becoming a too much to arrange childcare for both of the boys to go to the hospital, which then results in me waiting hours to collect it.
"I was told by the hospital that their patients are a priority, but my son is my priority and I feel overlooked.
"I don't know what to do - it's his only source of food and hydration, he can't have anything else".
Product manufacturer Abbott confirmed to Glasgow Live there was no shortage in supply on their end.
But after discussions with NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde, "supply issues" are affecting some community pharmacies, including Nicole's.
Fortunately Nicole has now received a five day supply with Abbott supporting her directly going forward to "make sure Macaulay has what he needs".
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A spokesperson for NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said: "We are sorry about the challenges that Macaulay and his family are facing and understand how distressing this situation is for them.
"We can't comment further due to confidentiality but will continue to support this family in ensuring Macaulay receives the nutrition he needs.
"There are currently supply issues affecting this product from some community pharmacies. Our teams are working daily to manage these challenges and ensure patients continue to receive the care they need.
"This includes offering alternative brand products and providing supplies directly from our specialist feeds unit at the Royal Hospital for Children."
Glasgow Live approached Abbott for comment who committed to supporting the family after hearing of Nicole and Macaulay's plight, as well as investigating supplier issues.
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