A British widow has been left devastated and furious after learning that her husband's heart was secretly removed by doctors following his sudden death on a family holiday in Cyprus.
A Sudden Tragedy on Holiday
Michael Graley, a 76-year-old retired cemetery superintendent from Oldham, Greater Manchester, passed away shortly after arriving at a hospital in Paralimni, a town on the island's east coast. The tragedy struck after Michael suffered a cramp in his leg while abroad with his wife, Yvonne, and their family.
Yvonne recounted the harrowing moment to the Sun, stating a doctor emerged from a room and simply said, "He's dead." Her husband had died just ten minutes after reaching the medical facility.
The Shocking Discovery Back in the UK
Following a post-mortem in Cyprus, Michael's body was repatriated to the United Kingdom. However, officials in the UK noted a critical omission: no cause of death was recorded on the certificate. This required a second examination by the coroner's office in Rochdale.
It was during this UK post-mortem that the grim truth was uncovered. "They said someone had removed Michael’s heart and so they cannot determine a cause of death," Yvonne explained. "I was so shocked. It was horrible."
A Family's Outrage and Demand for Answers
According to Cypriot police, the removed organ had been sent to a research facility. The family, including Michael's 47-year-old daughter Hayley, are outraged and seeking clarity. "We’re so angry and need answers," Hayley declared.
The Rochdale Coroner's Office confirmed its investigation into the death is ongoing. The family's grief has been compounded by the mysterious and unauthorised removal of Michael's heart, leaving them without closure or a clear explanation for his sudden passing.
Other Recent British Tourist Incidents in Cyprus
This distressing case follows other serious incidents involving British nationals in Cyprus this year:
- In May, a 60-year-old British tourist died after being found unconscious in a hotel swimming pool in Paphos.
- In June, 24-year-old Sam Hudson from Lincoln was left with severe injuries, including a broken hip and leg, after falling from a second-floor hotel balcony in Ayia Napa. He faced a huge potential medical bill after travelling without insurance.
