A talented scientist, Kirsty Smitten, who developed a groundbreaking class of antibiotics with the potential to save countless lives, has sadly passed away at the young age of 29. Despite being diagnosed with a rare and terminal form of heart cancer, Kirsty fought bravely for several months before succumbing to the disease on October 4. She had been receiving treatment at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham for seven weeks prior to her death, with her devoted family by her side in her final moments.

Kirsty’s incredible contributions to science cannot be understated. Alongside her team at Metallo Bio, she successfully created two antibiotic compounds capable of combating drug-resistant bacterial infections, including strains of pneumonia and meningitis. These infections have become increasingly immune to commonly used drugs, as well as combating post-surgical and wound infections. Kirsty’s work offered hope in the face of the growing global health threat of antimicrobial resistance, as identified by the World Health Organization.

The loss of Kirsty is a devastating blow for her family, who were still mourning the unexpected passing of her seemingly healthy father, Kevin, just a year prior. Now, they must also grapple with the profound grief of losing Kirsty to this aggressive form of cancer. Kirsty’s sister-in-law, Sukhi Smitten, shared that Kirsty continued to find purpose and joy despite her own illness, as she eagerly anticipated her brother Dan’s upcoming wedding and the arrival of Sukhi and Matt’s baby in February. The family is shattered by her untimely departure and everyone mourns the loss of the incredible aunt she would have been.

As Kirsty’s family faces their own profound grief, they are determined to honor her memory by carrying on her exceptional legacy in the scientific community and raising awareness about Cardiac Angiosarcoma. Kirsty’s passion was evident as she regularly shared her journey on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram, providing support to fellow sufferers and educating others about this devastating disease. It is their hope that Kirsty’s groundbreaking antibiotics will continue to be developed and made accessible to the public, while her courageous battle against cardiac angiosarcoma continues to inspire and bring awareness.

Original article: “Pioneering scientist who created a new class of antibiotics that could save millions of lives dies aged just 29” – By Helen Carroll, Published: 20:32 EDT, 8 October 2023 | Updated: 21:22 EDT, 8 October 2023

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