The Gordon family has provided an update on Karen's condition and emails from East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trusts’ solicitors. Using information from the public update provided by the family, we have summarised the main points below.
AI Summary – checked by the MEA for accuracy
- Karen has been in Conquest Hospital for 2 years and 5 months.
- She struggles significantly with hot weather due to severe ME, and during the recent heatwave her hospital room exceeded 30°C.
- During February & March 2026, when Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN) was stopped because of infections, Karen repeatedly developed low potassium and magnesium levels and required IV infusions.
- Unfortunately, Karen has not fully recovered from earlier infections and continues to experience temperature spikes and excessive sweating.
- Her chronic anaemia has worsened again, with low haemoglobin levels increasing her Severe ME symptoms and exhaustion; further treatment will be needed.
- On 19 March, Karen experienced a frightening episode of severe pain in her left eye, face, and jaw, alongside sweating, shaking, vomiting, and feeling very unwell.
- A consultant later examined her and noted some swelling in the left ear area following a recent ear infection. A CT scan was advised if the facial pain returned, but fortunately it has not recurred.
- TPN was restarted on 11 March, gradually increased without problems, and returned to her normal rate by 21 March, which brought relief.
- A scheduled urinary catheter change has caused Karen to experience unusually severe and prolonged bladder problems, spasms, and pain lasting several weeks.
- Solicitors for East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust (ESHT) contacted Karen’s solicitor regarding a legal matter at the end of last year, however soon afterwards Karen became severely ill with infections, requiring four courses of IV antibiotics and two procedures under general anaesthetic, making it impossible for her to deal with legal correspondence.
- Despite being informed repeatedly that Karen was too ill, ESHT solicitors continued to chase for updates, creating extra work, stress, and exhaustion for Karen and her family.
- In April, Karen began reviewing the legal letter and preparing instructions for her solicitor, but the process remains exhausting and stressful
Karen Gordon Petition
Read the full update from the Gordon family via the link below
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