Heartbreak turns into action for Corinne Cope following the tragic loss of her nine-year-old son, Dylan. In December 2022, Dylan lost his life after being misdiagnosed with appendicitis and sepsis. Nearly three years later, Corinne continues to fight for change to prevent similar tragedies.
A heartbreaking series of errors led to Dylan’s death, involving a hospital discharge that should never have happened. An inquest revealed these failures amounted to “a gross failure of basic care,” and Dylan’s passing was deemed preventable. Corinne’s journey for justice has been filled with grief but is driven by the determination to see change.
Working with the UK Sepsis Trust and reaching out to the Welsh Government, Corinne has campaigned passionately for better safety measures. Thanks to her efforts, All-Wales safety-netting leaflets for adults and children are now approved. These leaflets, rich with vital information on recognising sepsis, aim to bring consistent care across Wales.
Corinne emphasises the critical need for safety-netting, ensuring families and patients have clear guidance when navigating healthcare challenges. “It’s best to assume people know nothing and provide them with robust information,” she insists. Her relentless push for these changes resonates with her belief that “not every death is preventable, but many can be with timely recognition and care.”
The Welsh Government has also introduced a screening tool to help identify sepsis symptoms early. Corinne is hopeful these tools could save lives, saying, “Had it been available earlier, it might have saved Dylan.”
Through all the pain, Corinne finds strength in crafting meaningful action from her loss. “Campaigning doesn’t ease the grief, but if no one acts, things will never improve,” she states.
Dylan is remembered as a loving and feisty spirit, and Corinne’s campaign ensures his story leads to positive change. Her work with health bodies and trusts demonstrates the power of a mother’s love to fuel essential progress in healthcare. Let’s applaud her courageous commitment to safeguarding other families from preventable heartache. 🌟 #DylansLegacy #StopSepsis