“After coming out of an incredibly intimidating pre-inquest review hearing meeting feeling utterly powerless… I began researching what help, if any, I could receive to make me feel less alone.”
Joan's daughter Debbie's words capture why AvMA is here. When families feel dismissed or overwhelmed, we offer clarity, compassion, and expert support so that no one has to face avoidable harm alone.
Joan is remembered as "humble, loving, kind, gentle, and loyal — the heart of her family". She was the centre of their lives, remembers her daughter Debbie; "the lynchpin that joined everyone together — especially at Christmas."
She lived independently until 91, but after an unwitnessed fall in May 2023 needed closer care. While in hospital she fell again, and despite her increased needs and her family’s concerns, the decision was made to discharge her home.
During those last weeks, Joan confided in her family her concerns of being in hospital as an older person: "Joan always said being old and in hospital, she wouldn't be listened to. As an NHS employee, I told her that wasn't right. Sadly, she was proved right in the last two weeks of her life."
Debbie tried to explain that Joan’s home wasn’t safe without adaptations, but the discharge went ahead. "The ward manager said if she fell rushing here 'on her head be it'."
Just days later, Joan suffered a catastrophic fall at home and died from her injuries on 7 June 2023. When the cause of death did not reflect what had happened, an inquest was called. That was when Debbie found AvMA.
"Promptly, I was assigned an case worker… she completely reassured me and restored my initial determination."
With steady support, Debbie secured a corrected cause of death and the clarity her family needed. "The unconditional support from AvMA armed me with the confidence and resources to achieve an outcome I was satisfied with."
Her message now is simple, and vital for all of us: "If you feel something isn't right, say something. If you still feel you aren't listened too, take it as far as you can... Elderly patients are still human beings... Every patient deserves to be heard, respected, and treated with dignity, no matter their age."
Joan’s story reminds us that it really can happen to anyone, and that listening, openness and compassion save lives. This Christmas, please help AvMA be there for more families who feel unheard or powerless.
Your monthly gift helps fund our helpline, inquest work, outreach projects and the wider reforms that strengthen patient safety nationwide. It can happen to anyone. Together, we can make sure no one faces it alone.
