Hospital Negligence Leads to Tragic Death of Mother: A Heartbreaking Tale of Loss and Injustice
The devastating loss of Laura-Jane Seaman, a 36-year-old mother of five, has left her family shattered and questioning the care she received at Broomfield Hospital in Essex. In the days leading up to her death, Laura-Jane pleaded for her life, uttering the heart-wrenching words, “I have five babies at home. Please don’t let me die.” Her tragic passing just days before Christmas in 2022 has been deemed “avoidable” and “contributed to by neglect” according to a recent inquest.
A Labour of Hope and Joy
The birth of Laura-Jane’s fifth child initially seemed to be a joyous occasion. Her labor was uncomplicated, and in the hours following the birth, she appeared well and was able to breastfeed her newborn son. Her mother, Sarah, fondly recalls the moments of hope and excitement as they looked forward to leaving the hospital and indulging in their traditional post-birth McDonald’s breakfast. However, the atmosphere quickly shifted as Laura-Jane began to feel unwell, expressing feelings of distress and a sense of something being amiss.
A Tragic Turn of Events
Despite being at high risk of post-partum hemorrhage, Laura-Jane’s deteriorating condition was not escalated appropriately. Instead of receiving the urgent care she desperately needed, she was treated for dehydration and given a biscuit. Her vital signs were recorded on a cardiotocography print-out, a critical oversight that failed to highlight the severity of her condition. As her distress escalated, Laura-Jane repeatedly voiced her fears of dying, pleading for help that tragically went unanswered.
Heartbreaking Final Moments
Sarah tearfully recounts the final conversations she shared with her daughter, as Laura-Jane expressed her fears of impending death to the medical staff. Despite her desperate pleas, her cries for help were not met with the urgency and attention they warranted. Two days later, after undergoing multiple surgeries and experiencing cardiac arrests, Laura-Jane passed away, leaving her family shattered and reeling from the profound loss.
A Mother’s Love and Legacy
For Laura-Jane’s eldest daughter, Amie, and her siblings, the absence of their beloved mother has left a void that can never be filled. Describing Laura-Jane as an “amazing mum” who provided them with the best childhood memories, Amie reflects on the challenges of growing up without her guiding presence. Laura-Jane’s passion for motherhood and her selfless dedication to her children are remembered fondly by her family, who now navigate life without her unwavering love and support.
A Call for Justice and Accountability
Camilla Browne, a solicitor from Leigh Day who supported the family during the inquest, highlights the egregious failings in Laura-Jane’s care, citing them as some of the worst she has encountered. The lack of basic care and oversight in Laura-Jane’s treatment underscores a larger issue within maternity services, emphasizing the critical need for improved protocols and accountability. The Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust has expressed its commitment to enhancing maternity services in light of the tragic events surrounding Laura-Jane’s death.
Moving Forward with Hope and Healing
As the Seaman family grapples with the profound loss of their beloved Laura-Jane, they are united in their quest for justice and accountability. Remembering her as a natural mother, dedicated professional, and compassionate volunteer, they honor her memory by advocating for systemic changes that prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. Despite the pain and heartache they endure, the Seaman family remains resilient in their pursuit of justice and healing in the wake of Laura-Jane’s untimely passing.
