The loss of a child is one of the most devastating experiences a parent can endure. Tragically, that is the reality faced by Caroline and Andrew, the parents of Ryleigh Hillcoat-Bee, a vibrant and joyful 3-year-old girl who passed away due to a series of “missed opportunities” by the medical professionals tasked with her care. This is Ryleigh’s heartbreaking story.
In August 2021, Ryleigh fell ill while on vacation with her family in North Wales. Her parents, Caroline and Andrew, rushed her to the hospital, where doctors noted her blood had “extraordinarily high” levels of Creatine Kinase and potassium – clear signs of a serious muscle problem, potentially rhabdomyolysis. Despite these concerning symptoms, Ryleigh was sent home from the hospital, much to the confusion and distress of her parents.
According to the area coroner, Alan Wilson, there were several “missed opportunities” to thoroughly investigate Ryleigh’s condition before she was discharged. The hospital, he stated, had been given clear advice from colleagues in Leeds to seek the opinion of a neuromuscular specialist, which could have led to a proper diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis and appropriate treatment. Unfortunately, this critical step was overlooked, and Ryleigh’s parents were simply told she would recover as quickly as she had fallen ill.
Three months after being sent home, Ryleigh’s condition had deteriorated to the point where her parents had to rush her back to the A&E department. Tragically, at Blackpool Victoria Hospital, Ryleigh suffered a heart attack and passed away on November 8, 2021. The coroner’s inquest revealed that Ryleigh’s death could have been prevented had the initial hospital visit resulted in the proper diagnosis and treatment.
Ryleigh’s devastated parents, Caroline and Andrew, have been fighting for a full investigation into their daughter’s death. They have been instructed to pursue a medical negligence claim, with their lawyer, Diane Rostron, stating that “Ryleigh’s death could have been prevented” if the hospital had followed the advice of their colleagues and sought the opinion of a specialist.
In the wake of this tragedy, Ryleigh’s family and friends have come together to honor her memory. Ryleigh’s aunt, Katie Hobbs, ran the Royal Parks Half Marathon and organized a charity event that raised over £3,000 for The Compassionate Friends, a organization that has provided support to Ryleigh’s parents during this unimaginably difficult time.
The heartbreaking story of Ryleigh Hillcoat-Bee is a tragic reminder of the devastating consequences that can result from medical negligence. Her vibrant life was cut short due to a series of missed opportunities by the healthcare professionals tasked with her care. As Ryleigh’s family continues to grieve and pursue justice, their courage and resilience in the face of such profound loss is a testament to the enduring power of love and the human spirit.
