Parents’ 10-Year Hell to Get to the Truth After Baby’s Death
Allyn and Jenny Condon seek justice for their son Ben, who died at eight weeks old due to hospital failures, as they face a new inquest.
Bristol, United Kingdom, Ben Condon, Hospital Failures, Inquest, Justice
Bristol: Allyn and Jenny Condon are fighting for answers about their son Ben. He died at just eight weeks old in April 2015. They believe hospital failures led to his death.
Ben was admitted to Bristol Royal Hospital for Children with what staff called a cold. Sadly, he passed away after developing a serious infection. The new inquest starts today, on what would have been his tenth birthday.
Jenny expressed how painful it is to relive this trauma. She feels the hospital has been indifferent to their grief. They have fought hard for the truth about Ben’s care and death.
A 2021 report revealed that hospital staff were not honest with the Condons. The report stated that the staff failed the family and suggested a deliberate attempt to deceive them.
The hospital trust apologized and promised to improve. Allyn, a former Olympian, and Jenny have campaigned tirelessly for justice. They want to ensure no other family goes through this pain.
Mary Smith, their lawyer, emphasized that hospitals must be honest with families. No one should have to fight to uncover the truth about their loved ones.
Ben was born prematurely and developed a cough after leaving the neonatal unit. He was later diagnosed with a virus but tragically died from a cardiac arrest after a bacterial infection.
In a meeting after Ben’s death, hospital staff were overheard discussing mistakes made in his care. They even considered deleting their conversation, showing a lack of transparency.
The Condons have sought answers for ten years, making over 100 requests for information. They believe the hospital has tried to cover up the truth about Ben’s care.
Allyn stated they just want to understand why their son died. They feel the hospital has prioritized its reputation over patient safety.
Mary Smith added that no family should endure what the Condons have faced. The hospital’s conduct has been shameful, and they hope this inquest will finally provide the answers the family needs.
The conclusion of the inquest is expected on February 21 at Avon Coroner’s Court.