As a concerned parent, I am starting this petition to urge midwives and antenatal classes to provide essential information on febrile convulsions. This information should include what to look out for, what to do when your child has one, and the necessary aftercare.

Febrile convulsions are more common than we think, affecting 1 in 20 children aged between 6 months and 6 years. However, many parents are not informed about these seizures until they experience them firsthand. It is crucial that we change this lack of awareness and ensure that all parents have the knowledge they need to handle such situations effectively.

I personally experienced the terrifying ordeal of witnessing my child's first febrile convulsion at the age of 1. Albie woke up in the middle of the night shivering with a high temperature of 39 degrees Celsius. I immediately administered Calpol, hoping his temperature would come down soon. However, within moments he became unconscious and started having a seizure right before my eyes.

In that moment of panic and helplessness, I realized how important it is for parents to be prepared for such emergencies. Unfortunately, we were unable to get an ambulance promptly as we were put on hold while trying to speak with an operator! This delay only added more stress and anxiety during an already distressing situation.

It was only at the hospital that we were informed about febrile convulsions being relatively common among young children with high temperatures. We learned what steps should be taken if it were ever to happen again in order to provide immediate care.

This experience made me question why such vital information is not shared proactively by midwives or included in antenatal classes? By educating parents about febrile convulsions beforehand, countless families can be better equipped mentally and emotionally when faced with this alarming situation.

Therefore, I am calling on midwives and antenatal classes to make it essential to provide information on febrile convulsions. Parents should be educated about the signs and symptoms, appropriate actions to take during a seizure, and the necessary aftercare for their child's well-being.

By signing this petition, we are urging healthcare professionals to prioritize the dissemination of accurate and up-to-date information on febrile convulsions. Let us ensure that no parent has to go through the same feeling of helplessness that I experienced when Albie had his first convulsion.

Together, let's demand a change in our healthcare system so that every parent is equipped with knowledge about febrile convulsions before they affect their children. Sign this petition today and help create a safer environment for our little ones!