A mother reveals that her seven-year-old daughter now avoids going near the ocean after contracting a parasite during a family trip to Cornwall last summer. Little Willow Clarke suffered from severe symptoms, including vomiting, weight loss, and delirium for 12 days. She was diagnosed with cryptosporidium, a bug commonly found in human and animal waste that can contaminate water sources. Willow missed being a bridesmaid at her aunt’s wedding due to the illness.
The family’s experience highlights concerns about health risks associated with swimming in the sea, particularly due to the discharge of raw sewage by water companies. The case is reminiscent of the tragic story of eight-year-old Heather Preen, who passed away after contracting e.coli at a Devon beach in 1999, believed to be linked to sewage contamination.
Willow’s mother, Alice, recalls the harrowing ordeal when Willow fell ill after their short time in the sea. Despite not ingesting any water, Willow displayed symptoms shortly after their beach visit, leading to a rapid deterioration in her health. Alice rushed Willow back home to Devon, where she continued to suffer from vomiting and high fever for nearly two weeks before being diagnosed with cryptosporidium.
Although Willow has physically recovered, the psychological impact lingers, with her now avoiding the sea entirely. Alice firmly believes that Willow contracted the parasite from the seawater, causing lasting trauma for both of them. The financial strain of taking time off work to care for Willow adds to the family’s hardship.
South West Water denies responsibility, stating they do not have a storm overflow at the beach where Willow became ill. However, the UK Health Security Agency warns that cryptosporidium can survive in seawater for extended periods, raising concerns about water quality and safety. The family’s story serves as a cautionary tale about the potential dangers of waterborne illnesses and the need for greater awareness and preventive measures.