A family from Barnsley, South Yorkshire, is sharing their heartbreaking experience after the tragic death of Yvonne Ford, 59, who contracted rabies from a dog scratch while on holiday in Morocco. Her husband, Ron Ford, recounted the “horrendous” symptoms she endured during her final days, emphasizing the need for increased awareness about rabies.

While enjoying her vacation, Yvonne was scratched by a stray puppy. Initially, the scratch did not seem serious, and she and her husband opted not to seek medical attention. Four months later, in May 2023, Yvonne developed an “unbearable” headache and was admitted to Barnsley Hospital. Within days, her condition deteriorated rapidly. She lost her ability to walk, talk, and swallow, and started experiencing hallucinations.

After being transferred to Royal Hallamshire Hospital in Sheffield, Yvonne was placed in a coma as her family learned she had contracted rabies. Sadly, she passed away shortly after the diagnosis.

During an emotional interview on ITV’s This Morning, Ron Ford described his wife’s painful journey. Their daughter, Robyn Ford, recounted how the family returned from Florida on May 23, 2023, and shortly thereafter went on a fishing trip, during which her mother began to show alarming symptoms. Robyn noted that Yvonne’s health declined drastically within five days. “She just deteriorated within five days,” she stated.

Doctors opted to induce a coma due to Yvonne’s inability to swallow and the risk of choking. Her family was informed that life support would need to be turned off after the diagnosis. In light of their tragic loss, the Ford family is now determined to raise awareness about rabies to prevent similar situations from occurring.

Robyn has launched a GoFundMe appeal, which has raised almost £2,500 towards a target of £4,000. The funds will support efforts by Mission Rabies, a charity under Worldwide Veterinary Service, which aims to vaccinate dogs and eliminate rabies at its source in areas across Asia and Africa. Their goal is to vaccinate at least 70% of dogs to achieve herd immunity against the virus.

Rabies remains a significant risk in parts of Asia and Africa, despite being nearly eradicated in the UK. The virus can be transmitted through scratches or bites from infected animals and can remain dormant for one to three months. Once symptoms manifest, rabies is nearly always fatal.

Dr. Nighat Arif, appearing on This Morning, emphasized the importance of immediate action after a potential exposure. She advised that any scratch should be cleaned with soap and water and stressed that individuals should seek medical attention promptly, as rabies can also be contracted from animal saliva.

In a poignant message, Yvonne’s son, Adam Ford, urged people to take precautions. “We don’t want anyone to go through what we’ve gone through,” he said. “If we can get the awareness out, just check, check, check, contact your doctor. Get the injections. That’s all we want.” Their experience serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with rabies and the importance of preventive measures.

This weekend, the much-anticipated Traditional Show takes place near Banbury, attracting thousands of visitors from across Oxfordshire. Often described by local residents as “the best traditional show in the region,” the event promises a vibrant celebration of local culture, agriculture, and crafts.

Highlights of the Event

Scheduled for March 16-17, 2024, the show will feature a diverse array of attractions, including livestock exhibitions, craft stalls, and live entertainment. Organizers anticipate that the event will draw significant crowds, providing a boost to local businesses and showcasing the rich agricultural heritage of the area.

Attendees can expect to engage with local farmers, artisans, and performers, offering a unique opportunity to experience the best of rural life. From traditional food stalls serving local delicacies to competitions showcasing the best livestock, the show aims to engage visitors of all ages.

Community Support and Involvement

The community has rallied around the event, with many volunteers contributing their time to ensure its success. Local businesses have also invested in the show, with sponsorships and partnerships enhancing the overall experience. “This event is a testament to our community spirit,” said a representative from the organizing committee. “We are excited to welcome families and friends to come and enjoy what we have to offer.”

As the weekend approaches, anticipation is building among residents and visitors alike. The Traditional Show is not just an event but a celebration of local traditions that brings together people from various backgrounds to experience the charm of Oxfordshire.

With the focus on agriculture and crafts, the event offers a platform for local producers and artisans to showcase their work while fostering community connections. The show stands as a symbol of resilience and pride for the people of Oxfordshire, reflecting their dedication to preserving cultural heritage.

For those considering attending, the show promises not only entertainment but also a deeper appreciation of the area’s agricultural roots and local craftsmanship.

As preparations continue, the excitement surrounding the Traditional Show near Banbury is palpable, with many eagerly looking forward to a weekend full of fun, learning, and community engagement.

Nottinghamshire Police has officially welcomed a new canine officer into its ranks after the dog completed several weeks of rigorous training. The animal, previously abandoned by its former owners, has undergone complex preparation with an experienced handler, showcasing its skills and readiness for police work.

Transformation from Abandonment to Service

The new officer, a mixed-breed dog, was rescued and subsequently adopted by the force after demonstrating exceptional potential. This transition highlights the commitment of Nottinghamshire Police not only to law enforcement but also to animal welfare. The dog, whose name is yet to be revealed, has already begun to bond with its handler, establishing a partnership that is crucial for effective policing.

The training process consisted of various exercises designed to enhance the dog’s capabilities in search and rescue operations, as well as in detecting illegal substances. This thorough training regimen is essential for ensuring that the dog can perform its duties effectively in real-world situations.

Community Impact and Future Prospects

Nottinghamshire Police believes that integrating this rescued dog into their team will benefit both the force and the community. Dogs have played a vital role in policing, providing support in various operations and fostering positive relationships with the public. The presence of a canine officer can lead to improved community engagement and enhanced safety.

The police force has expressed its hope that this new addition will inspire others to consider adopting animals in need. The story of this dog serves as a reminder of the bond between humans and animals, particularly in roles that contribute to public safety. As the dog settles into its new role, it is anticipated that it will participate in community events and outreach programs, further strengthening ties with local residents.

In summary, the arrival of this new canine officer marks a significant step for Nottinghamshire Police, reflecting the dual focus on law enforcement and animal welfare. With ongoing training and community involvement, the new officer is set to make a lasting impact in the region.

The United States has officially withdrawn from UNESCO, a move reiterated by former President Donald Trump during his initial term. This decision has raised concerns in Montenegro, particularly among officials who interpret it as a potential pathway for citizens of Kotor to vote on removing their city from the UNESCO World Heritage list.

Montenegrin authorities, including the Minister of Culture, have begun to discuss the implications of this withdrawal. They suggest that the local population may have the opportunity to decide, through a referendum, whether to maintain Kotor’s status as a UNESCO site. The UNESCO designation is vital for preserving the city’s cultural heritage, attracting tourists, and ensuring international recognition.

Despite this dialogue, there has been little emphasis on the fact that Montenegro could choose to exit UNESCO even without a public vote. This aspect of the situation has not been fully explored by officials, raising questions about the motivations behind the discussions and the potential consequences for Kotor’s cultural landscape.

The implications of the U.S. withdrawal from UNESCO extend beyond Montenegro, affecting various global cultural and educational initiatives. UNESCO plays a crucial role in fostering international cooperation in education, science, and culture. As countries navigate their relationships with this organization, the ramifications of such decisions will continue to unfold.

While the idea of a referendum may resonate with some residents, the potential loss of Kotor’s UNESCO status could have lasting impacts. Cultural heritage sites not only symbolize a community’s identity but also serve as economic engines through tourism. The future of Kotor’s status remains uncertain as discussions evolve and local sentiments are gauged.