Polio survivors at risk as energy costs increase

The health and even the lives of Meath's 28 polio survivors could be at risk this winter as a result of rising energy costs,

A tough winter is ahead for polio survivors who are at greater risk of hypothermia than the general population.

Meath has at least 28 survivors of the dreaded virus that caused debilitating illness in young people in the middle of the last century.

Emma Clarke Conway of Polio Survivors Ireland says that they know of 28 survivors of the illness living in Meath. "We know of at least 1,000 survivors in the country, but it is estimated there are at least 5000 survivors in Ireland, so we believe there are many more than 28 in Meath.

Polio Survivors Ireland is warning that as polio survivors have an extreme intolerance to cold, putting them at risk of hypothermia, this winter will be a huge challenge.

"These is a huge issue this winter with rising fuel costs. Their extreme intolerance to the cold means that they have to take extra measures to remain warm at all times. Even in summer, polio survivors have to light fires and wear extra layers of clothing. Heating is essential for survivors as without it many would have to resort to staying in bed all day to stay warm or cut back on food to pay their energy bills.

“Polio survivors also cannot use hot water bottles as they may experience numbness as a result of polio and post-polio syndrome. This can result in survivors suffering severe skin burns," she says.

Emma, who lives in Ratoath says Polio Survivors Ireland will have to extend it’s ‘Heating Support Payment’ to more members in a bid to ensure they can continue to heat their home throughout the winter

The organisation has been paying €125 support payment each year to low-income polio survivors to ensure they can pay their heating costs.

"As a result of the substantial increase in energy costs, we will have to broadening our eligibility criteria so we can extend this payment to more survivors than ever before".

The charity currently pays up to €30,000 each year to provide the Heating Support Payment to low-income survivors. The Heating Support Payment is funded entirely through donations and fundraising. Extending the payment to more members this year will cost the charity as much as an extra €25,000, which will come entirely from donations and fundraising.

Emma explains that Polio Survivors Ireland was established nearly 30 years ago and is the only organisation in Ireland providing practical services and support to those unfortunate enough to have contracted polio as babies or young children.

51 per cent of their members are in the 70 to 79 years age group, while 34 per cent are under 70. They have a small number of survivors over 80 and younger members who are migrants.

The organisation also has a network of support groups around the country and provide a telephone support service for those who can’t leave their home. There is a support group in Navan, which is just getting back on track after the Covid pandemic, and it is intended to organise a meeting for survivors in the Louth Meath area in the near future.

Anyone who wants information on the meeting, the support group, or needs help or support can contact the organisation at 018898920.

"For those who are isolated, a listening ear is often the most important lifeline the organisation provides," says Emma.

As well as providing heating grants the organisation also helps members source stair lifts, calipers, bespoke footwear, electric scooters and wheelchairs, as well as helping survivors access a range of other supports.

To donate to Polio Survivors Ireland, visit www.polio.ie