23-year-old ‘suddenly and unfairly taken’

Rebekah May Emmett, 23, died on Monday final week “after a short and hard fight”, her household mentioned in a funeral discover printed in Hawke’s Bay Today.

Ms Emmett labored as a senior stylist at Wellington’s Z & Hair Co, which quickly closed its doorways because of the “deeply saddening event”, NZ Herald studies.

“Our beautiful girl was suddenly and unfairly taken from us on May 22, 2023 after a short and hard fight,” her household mentioned.

She was described as a “much loved youngest daughter”, “best friend and sister”, “beloved “granddaughter”, “treasured family member of all her extended family” and “special friend to many”.

“Cherished and adored by all who knew her,” the discover mentioned.

“Thank you to the ICU team at Wellington Hospital for their beautiful care of our daughter. In lieu of flowers, a donation to the SPCA can be left at the service, and would be appreciated.”

Originally from Hawke’s Bay on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, Ms Emmett additionally expressed her Scottish heritage as a part of the native Caledonian Pipe Band.

“Rebekah was not only a cherished daughter but also an integral part of our group for many years,” Hawke’s Bay Caledonian Pipe Band pipe main Jarrod Cawood wrote on the group’s Facebook web page.

“Her presence and active involvement enriched our community, and her warm personality and infectious enthusiasm touched the lives of many. Whether it was her vibrant smile, her unwavering support, or her genuine care for others, she left an indelible mark on our hearts.”

He added, “Let us remember Rebekah not only for the profound impact she had on our lives but also for the joy, laughter, and love she brought into our community. May her spirit continue to inspire us as we honour her memory and support one another through this challenging time.”

In 2016, Ms Emmett was featured in an article in Hawke’s Bay Today as she switched from highland dancing to drums to compete within the Royal New Zealand Pipe Band Championships.

“The 16-year-old Hastings Girls’ High School student started dancing at age three and has excelled, landing her a place dancing at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo which marched into Wellington’s Westpac Stadium last month,” the native newspaper wrote.

Ms Emmett described it as an “unforgettable experience”.

“I prefer dancing because I started so young, it’s a big part of my life, [but drumming also tied into the bigger scheme of things],” she mentioned on the time.

A celebration of her life is being held in Hastings, Hawke’s Bay on Monday.

New Zealand’s Meningitis Foundation described the loss of life as an “absolute tragedy”, urging Wellingtonians to concentrate on the signs of the lethal and contagious sickness and to get vaccinated if they will.

Meningitis Foundation chairman Gerard Rushton known as on the federal government to make entry to each meningococcal vaccines, in addition to the pneumococcal vaccine, free for all younger folks below 25.

In New Zealand, meningococcal vaccines are free for all kids as much as 12 months previous, and for folks aged 13 to 25 who’re getting into into or of their first yr of specified close-living conditions equivalent to college.

The Foundation inspired all eligible folks, significantly to first-year college students residing on-campus, to hunt instant vaccination for each meningococcal B and the ACW&Y strains of the illness.

“We need to drive uptake immediately to protect our [young people],” Mr Rushton mentioned in an announcement on Friday. “There are many eligible people who don’t know that they have free access to both the vaccines for ACW&Y, and for meningococcal B.”

Mr Rushton confused that each second counts with meningococcal meningitis as folks can shortly deteriorate.

The signs of meningococcal meningitis in adults and youngsters are a stiff, sore neck, sensitivity to mild or a dislike of vivid lights, extreme headache, issue waking or a drowsy, confused state, a fever, typically accompanied by chilly fingers and ft, aching sore joints, vomiting, and convulsive matches or seizures.

“Trust your instincts — if you suspect meningitis, our recommendation is to seek medical help immediately,” Mr Rushton mentioned. “It’s much better to be safe and overly cautious.”

Health New Zealand’s Dr Craig Thorley on Friday described the loss of life as a tragedy and mentioned the company despatched its condolences to the household.

“Out of respect to them we will not be releasing any further information on this death,” he mentioned.

Dr Thorley mentioned Health New Zealand had adopted up with everybody who had contact with the affected person, together with relations, and was happy there was no additional well being threat.

“I would strongly encourage those who are eligible to get their vaccinations for the extra protection, whether that is at your tertiary medical centre or general practice,” he added.

Earlier this month, two fathers from Melbourne revealed their heartbreak after their miracle child Owen handed away on account of meningococcal illness, only one week after celebrating his first birthday.

frank.chung@news.com.au

Originally printed as Tributes for ‘beautiful’ 23-year-old ‘suddenly and unfairly taken’ by meningococcal illness