Family of a Man Who Passed Away After £12,000 Weight Loss Surgery to Take Legal Action Against Healthcare Firm
The Morris family is preparing to take legal action against a healthcare firm following the tragic death of their beloved Philip Morris, a musician, actor, businessman, and author from Newport. Philip underwent weight loss surgery at St Anthony’s Hospital in Surrey, operated by Spire Healthcare, with the hope of improving his health and wellbeing. The surgery was intended to help him reduce his weight from 22 stones to 15 stones, enabling him to lead a healthier life through a combination of a balanced diet and regular exercise.
Originally, Philip was scheduled to undergo the procedure at St George’s Hospital in Tooting in 2020 on the NHS. However, due to complications with his glucose levels during one of his visits, the treatment was delayed. With the onset of the pandemic and the subsequent halt in elective procedures within the NHS, his bariatric surgeon, Dr. Omar Khan, recommended private treatment at St Anthony’s. Philip, concerned about his deteriorating health and eager to resume his passions such as acting and travelling, opted for the private surgery by agreeing to the £12,000 fee.
Tragically, post-surgery, Philip experienced severe pain, and within four days, he succumbed to a lack of oxygen. A subsequent inquest revealed that crucial steps were overlooked by the hospital staff, such as the failure to use a carbon dioxide monitor effectively and to conduct the necessary blood tests as prescribed by the surgeon. These oversights, as determined by Coroner Sarah Ormond-Walshe, significantly contributed to Philip’s untimely demise, which she regarded as preventable had proper actions been taken.
Despite the findings of the inquest suggesting specific failures in Philip’s care, the Morris family expressed their dissatisfaction with the compensation offered by Spire Healthcare. Dana Morris, Philip’s wife, lamented the ongoing ordeal they have endured, emphasising the financial and emotional toll the situation has placed on her and their teenage son, Orson. Due to the lack of a satisfactory resolution, the family has resorted to initiating legal proceedings to seek justice for Philip’s death and to hold the healthcare provider accountable for their actions.
In response to the impending legal action, a spokesperson for Spire Healthcare acknowledged the tragedy of Philip’s passing and indicated that the matter is being addressed through legal channels. Meanwhile, the arts community in Wales mourned the loss of Philip, a prominent figure known for his contributions to the local arts scene. As a founding member of the Wales Art Review and a dedicated advocate for the arts, Philip’s legacy extends beyond his professional endeavours, touching the lives of many who admired his work and passion for creativity.
As Dana reflects on the devastating impact of Philip’s death, she remains determined to ensure that his story serves as a cautionary tale for others considering similar procedures. By sharing their harrowing experience, the Morris family hopes to raise awareness about the potential risks associated with medical interventions and the importance of conducting thorough research and asking pertinent questions before undergoing surgery. Ultimately, their pursuit of justice for Philip is not only a quest for closure but also a testament to their enduring love and commitment to honour his memory.