A heartbreaking inquest has revealed that expectant mum Megan Gardiner wasn’t properly informed of vital health risks before her tragic death. Megan, aged 25 and 17 weeks pregnant, passed away in June 2022 due to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP).
Kim Morley, a midwife specialising in epilepsy, highlighted multiple failings in Megan’s healthcare, arguing she was never told about her heightened risk of SUDEP, which should have been part of her care for over a decade based on national guidelines. Despite Megan’s severe epilepsy, neither she nor her family were ever given a clear understanding of the potential dangers.
Ms Morley remarked on the urgency and necessity of having these tough conversations with patients, so they can make informed choices. She stressed that a missed opportunity for guidance and medication planning left Megan vulnerable.
The court heard from Megan’s mum, Alison, who said that if they had been informed, the family would have taken every possible precaution to safeguard her daughter. Professor Philip Smith had advised a reduction in one medication, a decision Ms Morley criticised, saying a more comprehensive medication approach was needed.
Rachel Russel, on behalf of the health board, defended Prof Smith’s actions under existing guidelines, but Ms Morley argued they were not applicable here.
This inquest serves as a crucial reminder of the gaps in communication and healthcare, aiming to shed light on the vital improvements needed to prevent such tragedies in future. The discussion continues, emphasising the importance of informed healthcare decisions for expectant mothers with epilepsy. ❤️
#EpilepsyAwareness #Healthcare #InformedDecisions #MothersMatter