An inquest has been launched into the death of Shannon Meenan-Browse, a woman from Derry who died in August 2023, 18 months after undergoing gastric sleeve surgery in Turkey. Her family said they have been left "soul destroyed" after she reportedly became "starved" following the procedure.
Inquest progress
At a preliminary hearing at Laganside Court on Tuesday, October 13, it was established that the discovery phase had concluded and all parties were ready to proceed to a full hearing. Coroner Anne-Louise Toal noted that a full hearing could not be arranged until at least late February 2027, due to other inquests already scheduled. She confirmed she would identify an appropriate date and inform all parties whether an additional preliminary hearing would be necessary.
Family's account
Shannon's relatives stated she had "starved to death" in the months after the operation. Her husband Don and father Shane disclosed she had deteriorated so drastically that she "starved", enduring such relentless vomiting that her teeth decayed and her hair fell out before her passing. In an interview with Belfast Live in September 2023, Don described the loss of his wife as "soul destroying" for the whole family.
Warning to others
Highlighting the risks of seeking weight loss surgery abroad, Don implored: "I want everybody to be aware, to do your research, and to be aware that all the bad reviews are taken off."
