Leicester Mum's Tragic Death: Family Claims Hospital Failures Led to 'Bit-by-Bit' Health Decline

A heartbroken Leicester family is speaking out after claiming repeated failings by Leicester Royal Infirmary (LRI) contributed to the devastating decline and eventual death of their mother, Bridget Stewart. The 58-year-old passed away at the hospital on Thursday, February 29, 2024, leaving her family reeling and questioning the care she received.
The Stewart family alleges that Bridget's health deteriorated progressively, describing it as an “unraveling bit by bit.” They claim that numerous concerns raised with hospital staff were either dismissed or inadequately addressed, ultimately impacting her care and contributing to the tragic outcome. The family is now seeking answers and accountability regarding the circumstances surrounding Bridget's death.
“It’s been incredibly distressing to witness Bridget’s health decline in this way, particularly when we felt that the hospital was not providing the level of care she needed,” said a family spokesperson. “We raised concerns repeatedly, but felt they weren’t taken seriously enough. We want to understand exactly what happened and ensure that no other family has to go through this.”
Leicester Royal Infirmary has acknowledged the family’s concerns and stated they are taking the matter seriously. A spokesperson for the University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust said, “Our deepest sympathies are with the family of Bridget Stewart during this incredibly difficult time. We are committed to providing high-quality care and are aware of the concerns raised. We will be conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding her death and will be in contact with the family to share our findings.”
The investigation is expected to focus on the specific issues raised by the family, including the timeliness and effectiveness of diagnoses, the responsiveness of hospital staff to their concerns, and the overall quality of care provided to Bridget in the lead-up to her death. The family hopes that the investigation will provide clarity and lead to improvements in patient care at LRI, preventing similar tragedies from occurring in the future.
This case highlights the ongoing concerns regarding patient safety and the importance of open communication between patients, families, and healthcare providers. It also underscores the need for robust systems to ensure that patient concerns are addressed promptly and effectively. The family is receiving support from patient advocacy groups and legal professionals as they navigate this difficult process and seek justice for Bridget.
Further updates on the investigation and the family’s ongoing pursuit of answers are expected in the coming weeks. This tragic event serves as a stark reminder of the vital role hospitals play in the health and wellbeing of the community, and the critical need for accountability when things go wrong.