Press Releases and Announcements - 20 July 2011
Coronial inquiry into mother’s death
Medical negligence law firm Maurice Blackburn is supporting the
family of a mother of four who died following surgery at Wonthaggi
Hospital.
Kelly Richards, aged 29, was a full-time carer of the four
children aged 9, 5, 4 and 6 months.
Kelly was admitted to Wonthaggi Hospital in the morning of 13th
July for a tubal ligation (sterilisation) - normally a day
procedure done under general anesthetic.
Kelly had no known underlying health problems apart from mild
asthma.
She developed complications from the surgery and her condition
deteriorated and she was airlifted to the Royal Melbourne Hospital.
She died at 9pm that evening.
Her husband Jason has requested legal assistance from medical
negligence law firm Maurice Blackburn.
Maurice Blackburn principal lawyer Dimitra Dubrow said the
circumstance of Kelly's death at this time remains unclear but it
may have been preventable.
"Jason and his loved ones are still trying to come to terms with
this awful tragedy," Ms Dubrow said.
"The hospital is carrying out its own investigation about what
occurred.
"The case has been referred to the Coroner and we will be
assisting the family in the Coronial investigation."
Jason Richards, Kelly's husband said he was grateful for the
support of his family and friends.
"I never got the chance to say goodbye. I just wish that we had
had a chance to grow old together, to see our kids grow up and to
see our grandkids," Mr Richards said.
A photo of the family is available upon request. The family
is not available for any media interviews and have requested their
privacy be respected.