Jamie’s Story

These words were written by Jamie’s parents in 2011:

 “We are the proud parents of Jamie Devaney, who was born on 27 February 2007.

Avril (Jamie’s mum) is the Director of Nursing at Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (CWP), a mental health NHS Trust. As part of her job, Avril is the project lead to establish a link with the mental health service at Kisiizi Hospital, Uganda. Following a scoping visit in July 2010 it was agreed with staff at Kisiizi that a vehicle would enable the mental health team to improve care by developing community based services.

In response to this, a challenging bike ride was organised by supporters of the link for July 2011 from Kampala to Kisiizi Hospital to raise money for the vehicle. Jim (Jamie’s dad) was one of the cyclists and Jamie travelled by car to Kisiizi Hospital with his mum to wait for his dad to arrive. Soon after arriving at Kisiizi, however, Jamie fell ill. We believe that he had picked up an infection either in England before he left, or soon after he arrived in Uganda. He was exceptionally well cared for at Kisiizi Hospital. As he became more seriously ill, he was taken by air ambulance to Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya.

Although Jamie received excellent care, the impact of the toxins on his body was overwhelming and he died peacefully in intensive care at Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital on July 25, 2011, twelve days after becoming ill. He was only four years old but during those four years Jamie brought immense joy and pleasure to his family, and everyone else who was fortunate enough to know him.

Jamie had a lovely sense of humour, way beyond his four years, and a cheeky, endearing smile. He was exceptionally kind and gentle with everybody. His curiosity knew no bounds and he relished life and was looking forward to seeing more of what Africa held, including the lions, elephants and hippos.
As his parents, we know Jamie was perfect and we will always be glad we have such wonderful and precious memories of our time together as a family.

Jamie’s short life has touched so many people in the UK, Kenya, Uganda and beyond. We are keen to ensure that his life continues to benefit others. ”

As Jan, a CWP staff member said, ‘Jamie’s legacy is the unity between Uganda and ourselves. Let him stand for this and his spirit live on forever’.

Avril and Jim Devaney

Jamie Devaney, 2007-2011

Jamie’s legacy is the unity between Uganda and ourselves. Let him stand for this and his spirit live on forever.

Our Aim

To help people whose lives are affected by mental health conditions in Uganda.