A young mother’s death raises concerns over stem cell transplant complications
Hyde: It’s such a heartbreaking story. Devon Leigh, a 31-year-old mum, passed away after battling a rare cancer. She was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia at just 29.
Her family described her as a loving mother and partner. She worked as a nursery room leader at the Sunflower Centre. Sadly, she died on June 4, 2024, after complications from a stem cell transplant.
The inquest revealed that the transplant led to serious issues, including Graft vs Host Disease, where her body rejected the donated tissue. This caused further complications, ultimately leading to her death.
The coroner noted that while Devon had a naturally occurring medical condition, the stem cell treatment played a significant role in her passing. He expressed his condolences to her family during the inquest.
Devon’s family had concerns about the hospital’s care, but the coroner focused on the medical factors that contributed to her death. He concluded that she died from recognized complications of necessary medical treatment.
Her partner, John Mawdesley, shared a touching tribute, saying Devon had a wonderful spirit and lit up every room she entered. It’s a tragic loss for her family and the community.
