Royal London Consultant becomes patron of UK Charity for rare disease
Pratik Shah, a Consultant in Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes at The Royal London Children’s Hospital has become the patron of the ‘Children's Hyperinsulinism Charity’, a charity which supports the families of children and young adults living with congenital hyperinsulinism (CHI).
Hyperinsulinism is a rare condition that affects children by causing low blood sugar. Affected children are more prone to severe brain injury if the condition is not recognized and managed promptly.
For his PhD, Pratik undertook extensive research in the field of Congenital Hyperinsulinism, and specialises in children with glucose disorders (rare and syndromic forms of hypoglycaemia/diabetes). He has published widely and has been speaker at various national and internations conferences. He also led a highly specialised service for Congenital Hyperinsulinism.
Working at The Royal London Children’s Hospital for over 3 months, Pratik’s role consists of managing children with various endocrine conditions which includes children with glucose disorders. He continues to undertake research as well as education and training to various healthcare professionals in managing children with glucose disorders.
He accepted the offer to become the patron of the Children's Hyperinsulinism Charity in July 2020, having enjoyed being involved with the charity’s work for a number of years.
Becoming the patron of the charity involves Pratik lending his name and expertise, whilst also attending family conferences, teacher training days, family social days, and fundraising initiatives.
Of his appointment, Pratik said: “It is an absolute honour for me to join The Children’s Hyperinsulinism Charity to support the work they’re doing not only in the UK, but internationally too. I feel privileged to work together in fulfilling the goals and values of the charity and continue to raise awareness regarding hyperinsulinism and hypoglycaemia amongst healthcare professionals. I shall also support all their fundraising activities and collaboration with other charitable organisations and family support groups.”
Michelle Walkley, Co-Chair and Trustee of the Children's Hyperinsulinism Charity also welcomed the news by saying: “Over the years, Dr Pratik Shah has contributed greatly to helping make a difference to children with Hyperinsulinism and their families. He is a warm, familiar face in our rare community and brings with him a wealth of experience and expertise, as well as his passion and dedication. We are delighted he accepted our offer of Patron and look forward to working together.”
Well done, Pratik!