Pride of Guernsey: Dr Sandie Bohin

DR SANDIE BOHIN’s life-saving diagnosis of a young patient’s problem has been commended by Mandy Nash with a nomination for the Ravenscroft-sponsored Angel of the Year award.

Mrs Nash’s newborn granddaughter Willow had been at home for just a few days last July when she became very unwell and had to be admitted to Frossard Ward at the Princess Elizabeth Hospital.
‘Dr Bohin was the paediatrician on call for admissions that day and assessed Willow,’ Mrs Nash said. ‘Dr Bohin recognised a rare metabolic condition called maple syrup urine disease.’
The condition is characterised by poor feeding, vomiting, lack of energy, abnormal movements and delayed development, caused by the body not being able to properly process certain protein building blocks [amino acids].
Without treatment, the disease can lead to seizures, coma or death.
‘Not many medical personnel have come across this condition but luckily for the family, and more-so Willow, Dr Bohin had come across it before,’ said Mandy.
‘Every emergency stop was pulled out and Willow was flown out on an air charter to the Evelina London Children’s Hospital for life-saving treatment.
‘The treatment undoubtedly saved Willow’s life, and the family are now continually learning about how to manage MSUD, for Willow’s lifelong condition.’
Mrs Nash said that Sandie was one of several to pick up signs and symptoms and for that the family are very grateful.
‘This award would be the biggest thank you to a very special doctor.’