A heartbreaking story has emerged of a woman who was given a shock diagnosis and told she had up to 10 years to live, only to pass away just five days later. Kay Picton, a 70-year-old woman described as fit and healthy by her daughter Dawn Edwards, underwent a routine procedure to treat cancer of the bile duct. Tragically, complications arose following the procedure, leading to Kay’s untimely death at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital in Pontyclun, Rhondda Cynon Taf.
Dawn Edwards has raised concerns about the care her mother received at the hospital, citing a lack of monitoring, pain relief, and oral care as contributing factors to her decline. Despite her complaints, an investigation was hindered by missing documents related to Kay’s care. The ombudsman’s report highlighted shortcomings in the hospital’s handling of the case, including inadequate observations and substandard pain assessment.
The sequence of events leading to Kay’s death painted a distressing picture, with Dawn recounting the anguish of finding her mother in severe pain and distress after the procedure. The family questioned the decision-making process around placing a “do not attempt resuscitation” notice on Kay without their knowledge. They believe that crucial information about the procedure and potential risks was not adequately communicated, raising doubts about the consent process.
The ombudsman’s findings supported the family’s concerns, prompting the health board to issue an apology and implement measures to improve record-keeping and patient care protocols. Despite the hospital attributing Kay’s complications to pancreatitis, her family remains convinced that sepsis played a significant role and should have been addressed sooner. Dawn expressed deep sorrow over her mother’s undignified passing and the trauma it has caused, including her own struggles with PTSD.
In response, the Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board expressed regret for the lapses in Kay’s care and committed to learning from the case to enhance future practices. The family’s quest for accountability and justice in the face of such a devastating loss serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency, compassion, and quality care in healthcare settings. The tragedy highlights the need for thorough investigations, improved communication with patients and families, and the prioritisation of patient safety and well-being in all healthcare interactions.