Parents Instruct Lawyers To Help Support Them Through Inquest

The parents of an 11-year-old girl who died from meningitis are hoping an inquest will provide them with ‘vital answers’ regarding their daughter’s death. 

Tracey Shephard and David Luffingham took their only child Annalise to Croydon University Hospital’s children’s A&E on 11 February last year after becoming concerned she had been suffering with a headache and eye pain for a week as well as dizziness, vomiting, confusion and a high temperature.  

Later that day, Annalise, known as Annie, suffered a cardiac arrest. She died the following day. 

Medical negligence lawyers support family

Following her death Tracey and David, aged 49 and 54 respectively, instructed expert medical negligence lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to help secure answers and support them through the inquest process. 

Expert Opinion

“Annie’s death has had a profound impact on her family, in particular Tracey and David who are still struggling to come to terms with the untimely loss of their beloved daughter.

“Understandably they have a number of significant concerns and questions about the events that unfolded in the lead up to Annie’s death.

“While nothing can bring their daughter back we are determined to support Annie’s family through the inquest and help secure the answers they deserve.

“It’s also vital that if, during the course of the hearing, shortcomings around Annie’s care are identified, lessons are learned to improve patient care so other families don’t have to suffer the pain and anguish Tracey and David have following their daughter’s death.” Dami Oloyede - Associate Solicitor

Fundraising in memory of Annie following meningitis death

Annie, a pupil at Royal Russell School, had been studying for her 11-plus exams when she started feeling unwell. 

Annie also enjoyed football and captained her school team as well as horse riding and was a member of the Pony Club at Park Lane Stables in Teddington. Following Annie’s death, the stables and her school organised fundraising events in her memory in aid of the charity Meningitis Now. 

Parents hope inquest will provide them with answers

In a joint statement Tracey and David said: “Not only was Annie a beautiful and loving daughter on the outside, she was beautiful on the inside. She was always smiling and happy and loved helping others. 

“She was active, academically gifted and wanted to be the best version of herself that she could be. 

“Annie was loved by everyone who knew her and it means so much to us that people took time out to fundraise in her memory following her death. 

“We remain absolutely devastated by what happened to Annie and have so many questions about the care she received in the lead up to her death. 

“While 16 months have passed since Annie’s death, time has stood still for us because of the many questions we still have.

“We know the inquest process looking into how our wonderful daughter died is going to be extremely difficult but it’s an important process for us to ensure there is a full and proper investigation.” 

An inquest into Annie’s death is due to take place at Croydon Coroner’s Court on Friday, June 25.

Find out more about our expertise in helping families affected by meningitis at our dedicated medical negligence section. Alternatively to speak to an expert contact us or call 0370 1500 100. 

For more information about meningitis and support available visit www.meningitisnow.org