Grandfather receives £900,000 after stroke misdiagnosis

Jodi Newton

Osbornes secure settlement for stroke claim

Our medical negligence solicitors advised a grandfather who suffered a devastating stroke after carers missed 142 scheduled visits, leaving him without vital medication, has secured a £900,000 compensation settlement for his stroke misdiagnosis claim.

Severe Neglect

The 63-year-old man, whose identity is protected for legal reasons, relied on carers from Ashley Care LLP in Southend, Essex, to visit two to three times daily to prompt him to take Dabigatran, a crucial stroke-prevention medication.

However, over a 12-week period, carers failed to show up on 142 separate occasions—including 45 full days—resulting in him missing essential medication. Critically, carers did not visit at all in the four days leading up to his stroke.

Life-Changing Impact

The stroke left the man, now aged 69, paralysed down his right side, unable to speak, and significantly reduced his life expectancy. Due to his diminished mental capacity following the stroke, he was granted anonymity by the court.

His daughter shared:

“We were told he had only a 1% chance of survival. It’s a miracle he is still here, but he should never have been in this situation. If the carers had fulfilled their responsibilities, he would still be able to walk and talk. The neglect was appalling. He had been lying helplessly for days, making his condition far worse.”

Family’s Distress

The man, who previously experienced depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues, required daily support from Ashley Care. His family trusted carers to ensure he took medication and encouraged his independence, unaware visits were frequently missed.

His daughter recounted:

“My dad collapsed but managed to call his niece, saying only ‘help’. When found, he was lying on the floor, unable to speak and covered in faeces. It’s devastating that those entrusted with his care repeatedly neglected their duties.”

She added:

“My children now don’t have the active grandad they should have. He was my best friend and would have been wonderful with them—this tragedy has robbed us of that. Families relying on carers must check that care visits are happening; we trusted carers who ultimately failed us. Care companies must realise lives depend on them.”

Stephanie Prior commented

Stephanie Prior, who represented the family, commented:

“My client is fortunate to have survived but has had his life irreversibly changed by negligent care. This tragic case highlights the critical need for care providers to consistently attend all scheduled visits, given the profound responsibility they carry.”

Support and Advice

If you have experienced negligent care and wish to discuss your case, contact the cardiac negligence team at Osbornes Law on 0207 485 8811 or complete an online enquiry form.