Tragedy unfolds: Mother with terminal cancer and dependent son found dead
Shirley Nuun received a devastating diagnosis. She was battling stage three lung cancer, which meant there was little hope for her. The hospital recommended palliative care and did not provide psychological support for her or her gravely ill son. Upon returning home, a family member found Shirley and her son dead.
Shirley Nuun, a 67-year-old mother, was caring for her 50-year-old son, Steven, who required constant care following a serious childhood accident, reports the "Daily Mail." At the age of 11, Steven suffered a severe brain injury due to an accident, causing permanent walking problems and significant learning difficulties. He was diagnosed with cerebral palsy and epilepsy.
In July 2021, Shirley learned about her stage three lung cancer, and a month later received a terminal diagnosis after the cancer spread to her brain, spine, and pelvis. She was discharged from the hospital with a plan for palliative care at home. Two days later, the police, called by her sister, found Shirley and her son dead.
They died on the second anniversary of her husband's death, who had also battled cancer. The hospital initiated an inquiry into the matter.
The investigation report suggested that the tragedy might have stemmed from Shirley Nuun's concerns about her son's future after her death. According to findings by the "Daily Mail," experts indicated that the hospital was obligated to provide psychological support. The report mentioned that in September 2021, Shirley had suicidal thoughts. These subsided when she resumed antidepressant treatment. However, she was reportedly showing signs of emotional instability.
It was recommended that hospital staff be aware of the need to look beyond just the time spent in the facility and consider risks such as domestic violence or the risk of suicide/murder when there is a dependency relationship between a caregiver and a person—especially in the case of a terminal diagnosis, adds "Daily Mail."
