The heartbroken daughter of a 55-year-old woman who died from sepsis just weeks after being discharged from hospital with nothing but paracetamol is speaking out to prevent similar tragedies.
Mum-of-three Amanda, described as "fit and healthy" by her devastated family, initially visited Birmingham's Queen Elizabeth Hospital in March 2023 complaining of severe abdominal pain. Despite clear indicators of serious illness, she was sent home with basic pain relief medication.
A Rapid Decline
Amanda's condition deteriorated alarmingly fast following her discharge. Her daughter, Casey, recounted the horrifying progression: "She went from being my mum to someone who was so poorly she couldn't walk, couldn't talk, couldn't eat."
The family's concerns grew as Amanda developed unmistakable signs of severe infection, including:
- Extreme weakness and fatigue
- Loss of appetite and difficulty eating
- Significant cognitive decline
- Visible physical deterioration
The Final Hospital Admission
When Amanda returned to hospital on April 17, her condition was critical. Medical staff immediately recognised the severity of her situation, diagnosing her with multi-organ failure caused by sepsis.
Casey described the moment she learned how serious her mother's condition had become: "They said her organs were failing and there was nothing more they could do." Despite intensive care efforts, Amanda passed away just days later on April 21.
A Family's Unanswered Questions
The grieving family now faces troubling questions about the standard of care Amanda received during her initial hospital visit. Casey believes clear warning signs were missed that could have saved her mother's life.
"If they had just done their job properly the first time, my mum would still be here," she stated, her voice filled with emotion. The family has since filed a formal complaint with the University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust.
Hospital Trust Responds
In response to the tragedy, a spokesperson for the Trust offered condolences to Amanda's family while acknowledging the need for investigation: "We extend our sincere condolences and are carrying out a thorough investigation into the concerns raised, which we will share with the family."
This case highlights ongoing concerns about sepsis recognition and treatment within the NHS, where early detection is crucial for patient survival.
