Devon woman with ME dies

Maeve Boothby-O'Neill, a 27-year-old woman diagnosed with myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), died at home in Exeter in October 2021 after pleading for help from her GP, Dr. Lucy Shenton, to assist her with feeding. Suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome since age 13, her condition deteriorated significantly in the months leading to her death, rendering her unable to sit, chew, or consume sufficient calories without assistance. Despite being admitted to the Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital three times in 2021, she was discharged each time without adequate care, leading her to express frustration in a letter stating, "I do not understand why the hospital did not do anything to help when I went in." The inquest into her death is examining her medical treatment and care from January 2021 until her passing, highlighting the challenges faced by ME patients in receiving appropriate healthcare. Her parents are advocating for better recognition and treatment of ME, as they remember Maeve as an exceptional student and loving sister. The hearing continues as the community seeks answers regarding her tragic death and the care she received.