The Minister for Health Stephen Donnelly has been honoured with the Laura Brennan Award 2024 by the Irish Society of Gynaecological Oncology.
The award was presented at the Presidential Plenary Session of the International Gynaecologic Cancer Society Annual Global Meeting in Dublin.
The inaugural award was presented to Laura Brennan in Belfast in 2018 for her campaign for increased uptake of the HPV (Human Papillomavirus) vaccine. Ms Brennan passed away from cervical cancer in 2019 at the age of 26.
The award in her name is presented annually by the Irish Society of Gynaecological Oncology to a patient or member of the public as a recognition of patient advocacy or involvement in research or campaigning.
Minister Donnelly was chosen as the 2024 recipient in recognition for implementing the Laura Brennan HPV Vaccine Catch-up Programme and his dedication and commitment to improving women’s health.
Minister Donnelly said:
“It is an honour and a privilege to receive the Laura Brennan Award today and I want to thank Laura’s parents Bernie and Larry for nominating me. This award stands in recognition of Laura’s incredible contribution to HPV vaccine awareness and her tireless advocacy for improved vaccine uptake.
“Laura was a true inspiration. Even when faced with a terminal diagnosis, she dedicated herself to ensuring that as few people and families as possible would have to go through the rigours of cancer treatment and end-of-life care as she did.
“Bernie and Larry worked with me and my department to roll out the Laura Brennan HPV Vaccine Catch-up Programme and the result of that programme is that 11,000 additional young people received HPV vaccination. We know this vaccine saves lives. It is safe and effective and protects against the types of HPV that cause 9 out of 10 cervical cancers.
“Our work continues to ensure we eliminate cervical cancer, and we have set a target in Ireland to reach this goal by 2040. It is achievable and we know that young babies today will reach adulthood in an Ireland where this disease has been eliminated. HPV vaccination is a crucial part of this, alongside screening and treatment services.
“We must continue to increase the uptake of the HPV vaccine and my Department and the HSE will continue to do everything necessary in working together towards elimination. Laura Brennan’s voice delivered the necessary change in Ireland on HPV vaccination and in honour of her legacy we will continue that work. Accepting this award today I’ll simply say, Thank You Laura.”
