With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of a sweet angel

The parents of Ryleigh Hillcoat-Bee, a three-year-old who died of a rare condition, are left outraged after learning their daughter’s life could be saved.

The little girl suffered from rhabdomyolysis, a disorder that breaks down muscles. She died of complications from the condition that affects one in 200,000 people in the UK.

Coroner Alan Wilson for Blackpool and Fylde determined that the doctors who treated her failed to notice the “red flags” before discharging her from the hospital after a five-day stay.

They had missed opportunities to closely examine Ryleigh’s lack of mobility prior to her discharge. She passed away three months later.

Doctors should have been aware that the girl’s deteriorating physical state could be linked with a neuromuscular problem.

According to reports, when she was admitted into Blackpool Victoria Hospital, doctors ran tests and her blood results showed abnormal readings, including ‘extraordinarily high’ levels of Creatine Kinase, likely indicating a muscle injury or disease. Despite this, doctors determined the girl suffered from a chest infection or hepatitis. She appeared slow, floppy, and lethargic.

Coroner Wilson confirmed to request evidence from the doctors involved in Ryleigh’s care at Blackpool Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, as reported by Blackpool Gazette.

Medical negligence attorney Diane Rostron noted, “The hospital was given clear advice… to get specialist advice from a neuromuscular specialist.”

According to Rostron, had the hospital sought specialist input, they could have “diagnosed rhabdomyolysis” and informed the family, allowing them to explore further treatment options.

We are so very sorry for the loss of Ryleigh Hillcoat-Bee. We hope her family will find the closure they deserve. May she rest in peace.