Annabel Greenhalgh, an 11-year-old girl described as “well-loved” by teachers and classmates, tragically passed away just hours after being sent home from the hospital. Her devastated parents, Craig and Josie, are now seeking answers and justice.
On October 13, 2022, Annabel was taken to Warwick Hospital’s A&E department after complaining of severe abdominal pain. It was not the first time Annabel had experienced such pain, requiring hospital treatment in the past. The doctors at the hospital diagnosed her with constipation and sent her home that evening.
The following morning, Annabel’s father found her unresponsive at home and immediately called for emergency assistance. Despite the efforts of paramedics to resuscitate her, Annabel was pronounced dead at the scene.
Her parents, filled with grief and sorrow, have patiently waited for almost two years, and the inquest into Annabel’s passing is finally scheduled to begin on 14 June at Coventry Coroners’ Court. This process will hopefully shed light on the circumstances surrounding Annabel’s tragic death and provide some closure to her grieving family.
Mum Josie spoke lovingly of Annabel, describing her as an incredible child who brought immense love, joy, and happiness to their lives. Annabel had a passion for music, fashion, art, and cherished her friends and her beloved cat, Reuben. Losing Annabel left a void that cannot be filled, causing her parents immeasurable pain and suffering.
Craig emphasized the importance of the upcoming inquest, stating that they trusted the hospital’s decision to send Annabel home, only to wake up to the devastating reality of her passing the next morning. The couple is determined to honor their daughter’s memory and find the answers they have been desperately seeking for over 18 months.
In their pursuit of justice, Annabel’s parents have engaged the services of Irwin Mitchell, a firm specializing in medical negligence cases. Emma Rush, the family’s solicitor, stressed the significance of the inquest, acknowledging that it won’t bring Annabel back but is a crucial step towards providing the family with the answers they deserve. Should any issues with Annabel’s care be identified during the inquest, it is vital that lessons are learned to improve patient safety.
The devastated parents are sharing their heartbreaking story in the hope that it will raise awareness and prevent other families from experiencing the same tragedy. The loss of their only child has left an enduring void in their lives, and they want to prevent anyone else from enduring such suffering.
When approached, Warwick Hospital declined to comment on the matter.
