Baby Died At Princess Royal University Hospital

The mother of a baby who died after medical staff made a catalogue of errors including failing to realise she was in labour has today vowed to honour her son's memory by continuing her battle for justice to make sure it 'never happens to anyone else'.

On August 17, 2007 Marisa Sanders, 34, from Bromley, Kent went into labour and went to the Princess Royal University Hospital where, as a result of a previous difficult delivery, she had been scheduled to undergo a caesarean on August 20.

But, on arrival, despite her waters having broken and signs that labour was underway she was left in a triage room for more than three hours where she was barely monitored and refused pain relief by the midwife. Ms Sanders said that even when it became apparent that the baby was in distress the staff on duty were slow to take action.

Thomas Arben Deliu was born without a heartbeat at 23.58 on August 17. He was not breathing. Despite receiving treatment his injuries were too severe and he died on August, 19 at just two days old.

Now the mum of two has instructed medical law specialists at Irwin Mitchell Solicitors and, just days before what should have been Thomas’s third birthday, has vowed to continue her battle for justice, determined to make sure that lessons are learnt as a result of her family’s devastating loss.

Medical law and patients’ rights specialist Auriana Griffiths from law firm Irwin Mitchell is representing the family. She said: “Ms Sanders and her family have been devastated by the loss of Thomas but remain steadfast in their determination to ensure that lessons are learnt and that no one should have to suffer the way they have.

“To lose a child under any circumstances is unimaginable but to know that Thomas’ death should have been prevented had staff at the Princess Royal University Hospital carried out basic checks and a followed basic protocol is unforgivable.”

Ms Sanders said: “To this day the overwhelming feeling of loss and grief at losing Thomas is indescribable. Our hearts have been shattered into such small pieces that even a lifetime can not repair. Being left isolated from medical staff and ignored during labour is something that should never happen to a woman when she is at her most vulnerable.

“To prevent other babies and family’s suffering such pain action needs to be taken now. I remain determined to make sure that this never happens to anyone else and that justice is done for my little boy.

“By taking this action we are trying to make sure our son Thomas's short life counted for something."

Ms Griffiths continued. The “South London Healthcare NHS Trust has admitted liability and accepts that Thomas’ death was caused by the negligence of its staff. Court proceedings have been commenced against the Trust and it is hoped that the matter will be concluded swiftly.”