In memory of Jess McLean (Page): a courageous advocate from the UK

With great sadness, we learned of the passing of Jess McLean (Page), much-loved Youth Ambassador of the Haemophilia Society, our UK National Member Organisation. Jess has died from acute myeloid leukaemia at the age of 29. Intelligent, courageous and kind, she was an inspiring advocate for everyone with a bleeding disorder.

Jess, who had haemophilia A and von Willebrand disorder, became a Youth Ambassador in 2018, mentoring the Haemophilia Society young members at Youth Camp and speaking at many events. Jess also took on new responsibilities as Talking Red Ambassador, a position which helps raise the profile of women and girls with a bleeding disorder. An accomplished speaker, in 2022 she was presented with the World Federation of Hemophilia’s Youth Fellowship award for her voluntary work for people with bleeding disorders around the world.

Through her volunteering with the Haemophilia Society, Jess met her future husband, Scott McLean, a fellow Youth Ambassador who now works for the charity. The couple became engaged in 2022 and were married in a beautiful ceremony earlier this month.

Jess was a respected and loved primary school teacher who also volunteered her time to support families in need of respite care. In her early 20s she developed a passion for playing rugby and she also enjoyed climbing and running, completing a virtual London Marathon during lockdown.

In due course, in consultation with Jess’s family, the Haemophilia Society will be establishing a special fund in Jess’s memory which will focus on issues which were important to her and allow to continue her amazing work. 

We send our heartfelt condolences to Jess’s family, friends and community.