A vibrant university student tragically passed away in severe pain after feeling dismissed by medical staff, her mother revealed at an inquest.
Libby Instone, a 20-year-old law student at Newcastle University aspiring to become a barrister, succumbed to an infarction of her small intestine after experiencing days of vomiting. Despite seeking help at an urgent care center multiple times within 24 hours, she was diagnosed with gastroenteritis before her untimely death in August 2023.
According to Libby’s mother, Susan Instone, her daughter fell ill after returning from a trip to London with her boyfriend, experiencing intense pain and vomiting. Despite seeking medical attention and being prescribed anti-sickness medication, Libby’s condition continued to deteriorate.
After being sent home twice, with the second visit resulting in Libby vomiting black liquid, her concerned family took her back to the urgent care center. Subsequently, Libby was taken to an emergency department where she waited for hours before receiving treatment.
Tragically, Libby’s health continued to decline, and she expressed fear about her condition shortly before collapsing. Despite efforts to save her, Libby could not be revived.
An independent medical expert highlighted missed opportunities in Libby’s care, stating that her inability to open her bowels should have raised concerns among medical staff. The expert report indicated that a timely scan and operation could have potentially saved Libby’s life.
In response to the findings, Dr. Michael Stewart, the group chief medical officer for North Tees and Hartlepool and South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trusts, offered a heartfelt apology for the lapses in Libby’s care, acknowledging a confirmation bias in her diagnosis.
The coroner is expected to deliver the final verdict on the case soon, shedding light on the circumstances surrounding Libby’s tragic passing.