Zoe’s Law Update: A Landmark Moment at Prime Minister’s Questions
Yesterday marked a day we’ll never forget.
After more than four and a half years of meetings, campaigning, and persistence, Zoe’s Law was brought right to the heart of government.
During Prime Minister’s Questions (PMQs), Ben Goldsborough MP (South Norfolk) stood and delivered Zoe’s story to the Prime Minister himself, powerfully, compassionately, and with conviction and we’re so thankful to him for this. The Prime Minister responded personally, committing to a meeting to move Zoe’s Law forward that very day.
That same afternoon, we sat down in a private meeting with the Health Minister, the Head of NHS Pathology, and other senior leaders across the NHS and UK health policy. For something we’ve fought so long to achieve, it felt incredible to see it happen, all in one day!
For me and my family, this wasn’t just another step in a campaign. It was something deeply personal as I hope all know by now.
Zoe’s Law was born out of loss — losing my sister Zoe at just 26 changed everything. It also gave us purpose: to make sure no other family faces the same failures, and that Zoe’s story becomes a catalyst for lasting change in patient safety and healthcare accountability.
We really couldn’t believe the outcome of yesterday and can only thank our local MP Richard Quigley and Ben Goldsborough for getting us there on the day.
What’s Already Changed Since Zoe’s Passing
I feel it’s important to note what’s already changed since Zoe’s passing in 2020, as the UK has moved forward significantly and we know part of this is from Zoe’s law along with other special people within the UK. The systems in place in 2020 designed to protect patients simply failed her, and they failed us. But since then, change has begun.
Here’s what’s already happened/happening across the UK:
Jess’s Law – Introduced this year, this legislation ensures that if a patient visits their GP three times with the same symptoms and no diagnosis, they must be referred for further investigation. It’s a major step forward in accountability and early diagnosis, the exact kind of safeguard Zoe’s Law calls for: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/jessica-bradys-legacy-inspires-new-life-saving-gp-safety-rule
Improved Pathology Oversight – Pathology imaging cameras have been introduced across GP practices nationwide, allowing clearer tracking of samples and fewer errors. This single improvement could save lives through earlier, more reliable results.
Enhanced NHS Testing Procedures – Where patients have skin tag/mole removals through NHS procedures, samples are routinely tested to prevent oversights. It’s a small but vital step in ensuring better patient outcomes.
These advancements show that advocacy, awareness, and persistence work. They prove that Zoe’s Law, Jess’s Law and the voices behind it, are driving real progress.
My Kilimanjaro Journey
I am currently doing 13 challenges in 10 months, and it all started with my booking Kilimanjaro! It then escalated with me booking others to do within 10 months such as;
– Mt Etna
– Everest base camp
Two down…Eight to go
Two down…Eight to go
Ten Challenges in Nine Months in Memory of Zoe Panayi
Sunday 4th June saw me take on my second challenge of the 10, in memory of my sister Zoe Panayi.
My sister Zoe Panayi lost her battle with cancer on 29th May 2020 at the young age of 26. Zoe was let down substantially by both GP’s and beauticians, and we want to change the law! (please read the links below to find out more).
This is my latest update following on from my second challenge so far 🙂
120km Bike Ride around the Isle of Wight
For me this may be the toughest I will take on…to set the picture it was 120KM
road cycle, circumnavigating the Isle of Wight (plus 14 miles more), which has far too many hills.