Hudson Pack Safe Appeal - Carbon Monoxide Poisoning
Campaigning for stronger travel safety guidance and public awareness
At a local surgery, I met Cathy Foley, whose 24-year-old son Hudson tragically died while backpacking in South America. Though initially misdiagnosed, Cathy’s persistence uncovered the true cause: carbon monoxide poisoning.
Her determination has led to real national change:
- Government travel advice now includes CO warnings
- WHSmith now sells CO alarms in all UK airport stores
I raised Hudson’s story in Parliament through a Westminster Hall debate, calling for stronger government guidance and better awareness. Too often, CO poisoning abroad goes undetected due to poor post-mortem standards and limited reporting.
Carbon monoxide is a silent, odourless killer. A £20 alarm can save lives. Cathy’s campaign — Hudson’s Pack Safe Appeal — now encourages all travellers, especially young backpackers, to carry a portable alarm.
This campaign shows how one local conversation can lead to national action. I’ll continue working with Cathy and campaigners to push for clearer advice, stronger protections, and better awareness across the travel industry.
Hudson’s death was preventable. We must make sure no other family faces the same loss.
