Irish Thalidomide Association Mourns Loss of Disability Activist Jacqui Browne

Jacqui Browne, a disability activist and thalidomide survivor, passed away at the age of 63. She died peacefully at her home surrounded by family and a palliative care team. Born in November 1961, she is survived by her siblings and wider family. Her family expressed being heartbroken by her passing.

Ms Browne's funeral arrangements include a reposing at the Gleasure Funeral Home in Tralee on Thursday and a funeral Mass at St John’s Church in Tralee on Friday. The Irish Thalidomide Association (ITA) members are devastated by her death and mourning the loss of a great friend.

Thalidomide, introduced in the mid-1950s for morning sickness, was withdrawn from most markets in 1961 due to birth defects. It caused deformities and deaths of many babies worldwide. ITA members have been advocating for a State apology for the impact of thalidomide. Ms Browne, a disability equality consultant for over 35 years, hoped for closure through a State apology.

According to the source: The Irish Times.