A young university student, known for her good health, tragically passed away in severe pain after being dismissed as a “time-waster” by medical professionals, as revealed by her grieving mother at an inquest.
Libby Instone, a 20-year-old from Billingham, Teesside, had been experiencing ongoing vomiting episodes before collapsing and succumbing to her condition. Despite seeking help at an urgent care center three times within a day, she was diagnosed with gastroenteritis before her untimely death in August 2023.
Having pursued a degree in law at Newcastle University with aspirations of becoming a barrister, Libby’s case was presented to Teesside Coroner Clare Bailey, who determined that she had passed away due to a small intestine infarction.
Libby’s mother, Susan Instone, recounted how her daughter’s health deteriorated rapidly after returning from a trip to London, leading to repeated visits to medical facilities with no definitive diagnosis or effective treatment. The family’s concerns escalated when Libby continued to deteriorate, prompting multiple visits to the urgent care center and eventual transfer to an emergency unit.
Despite efforts to seek medical attention, delays in treatment and misdiagnoses plagued Libby’s final days, ultimately resulting in her tragic passing. Mrs. Instone expressed her anguish over the lack of urgency and empathy displayed by healthcare providers, emphasizing the distressing experience Libby had endured.
An independent medical expert’s assessment, commissioned by the coroner, highlighted critical oversights in Libby’s care, indicating that a timely scan and surgical intervention could have saved her life. Dr. Michael Stewart, the group chief medical officer for local hospitals, extended a heartfelt apology for the lapses in Libby’s treatment, acknowledging the need for improved protocols and diagnostic practices.
The inquest deliberated on the findings, addressing concerns of confirmation bias in the diagnosis process. The coroner was expected to deliver her verdict following a thorough review of the case.
The tragic loss of Libby Instone serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of timely and accurate medical intervention, emphasizing the need for improved healthcare practices to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
