Misdiagnosis leads to young mother's death

Like any mother, Edel Kelly held on to every second she could with her two young sons and fought breast cancer to the very end.

Despite her fading energy, she did all she can to expose what the inadequacies in the system that led to her misdiagnosis -- those who she believed had cheated her of precious months or even years as a mother and a partner.

She first went to her GP, worried about a lump in her breast in July 2006 and was referred to Ennis General Hospital in August. But in December, the doctors told her she was in the clear. For a few short months, she was given the false hope that she would watch her beloved six-year-old Jack and three-year-old Lee grow up.

However, she was brought to hospital on October 19, 2008 as a result of vomiting blood. Then they broke the terrible news: The lump she had been told was benign turned out to be breast cancer and had fatally spread to her liver and bones.

The blow, after the faith she had placed in the medical practitioners, was unfathomable. Her GP had acted promptly in referring her to Ennis General Hospital

Shortly after, an ultrasound was carried out where it was found she had a "soft tissue mass," which warranted further investigation. The final diagnosis from Limerick regional hospital said there was "no tumor identified" after a core biopsy took place.

However, attached to the diagnosis it was stated "clinical correlation recommended," indicating that the results should be looked at with other details including ultrasound and the fact that a physical lump had formed.

But a report to Edel's GP said test results were "benign" and she was reassured of her health.

She had no reason to doubt the verdict of the experts. So it was with shock, and subsequent anger, that she heard of the fatal spread of the disease through her body the next year.

She consulted a medical lawyer, Eugene O'Kelly, to take legal action. "No compensation will ever make up for the loss of the boys' mother. [However] we would like to get something for them to help them as they grow up."

With raw determination, Edel pursued the legal route through her final months. "We know that she had breast cancer but she could have had that breast removed. She might have had a few more years left and more time with her boys if it was diagnosed in October 2006," said her mother. Strong to the end of her ordeal, Edel was brought home in her final days and lost consciousness on the evening of Thursday, June 19, 2008. She died two days later, surrounded by her family.

"Lee will never know what his mother was like. He is too young. It's so hard to explain to the children what happened," said Edel's father John.

If you believe that you are a victim of medical or doctor malpractice you should contact one of the experienced and trustworthy medical lawyer or attorney in your area.

Even if you are doubtful regarding the strength of your case, it is better to take it to the medical attorney who can look for your potential betterment.

The medical malpractice advice says that you should not get delayed if you believe you are the victim of medical or doctor malpractice. There is such a thing called Medical Malpractice Statute of Limitations. Ask your lawyer about it and file the claim as soon as you can.