The family of a "devoted family man" who died after being wrongly given an insulin injection at a hospital in Wales have paid tribute to him at the end of a "harrowing" two-week inquest into his death.
Details of the Incident
Donald Gough, known as "Don," who worked for the NHS for 50 years, died a month after he was "erroneously" injected with insulin at the end of surgery at the University Hospital of Wales in Cardiff. The 77-year-old bowel cancer patient had agreed to the surgery to remove secondary tumours in his liver and had been told it came with a maximum 5% risk of death.
A police investigation was launched after unexplained high levels of insulin were found in his body after he died, but no criminal charges were brought. The inquest concluded on June 12 found that while errors occurred, no clinicians or others acted with malicious intent to the former NHS radiographer.
Tribute from the Family
Born in Pembroke, West Wales, Don was a devoted family man and NHS professional who worked at Glangwili Hospital in Carmarthen for more than 50 years, his family said. In recognition of his NHS work, an X-Ray suite at Glangwili Hospital was named in his honour. The “Don Gough Suite” is a lasting tribute to the impact he made at the hospital, his family said.
In a tribute statement, his family said: "Born in Pembroke, West Wales, Donald Gough was a devoted husband, father, proud grandfather and great grandfather, who meant so much to his family, friends and colleagues. Don, as he was preferred to be called, was known for his warmth, loyalty and kindness to others throughout his life.
"Don was happily married for 55 years and was deeply devoted to his family. Together they created happy memories, including many holidays travelling across Europe in their campervan when the children were younger and later continued with his wife and his beloved dogs around Ireland and the UK.
"Don dedicated over 50 years of service to the NHS and Hywel Dda Health Board. He loved his job working as a superintendent radiographer and was hardworking, dependable and highly respected by those around him. He was recognised for his commitment and professionalism throughout his long career.
"In recognition of his outstanding contribution and years of service, an X-Ray suite at Glangwili Hospital was named in his honour. The “Don Gough Suite” is a lasting tribute to the impact he made within the hospital and his family are very proud.
"Outside of work, Don had a lifelong passion for all sports. He loved golf, horse racing and was a devoted supporter of Portsmouth FC. Don also had a deep affection for his dogs and always enjoyed their companionship.
"He religiously walked his dogs three times a day and his caring and gentle nature could be seen in every aspect of his life.
"Above all else, Don was devoted to his family. He will be remembered, not only for his incredible dedication to his profession, but also for his generosity, humour and the love he showed to his family and friends throughout his life.
"Don’s death leaves a huge loss to all who knew him, but his family feel his legacy, achievements and memories he created will never be forgotten."
Legal Representation
At the inquest, the family were represented by Rhian Parsons, partner and Abigail Kirby, chartered legal executive, in the clinical negligence team at Hugh James, and by counsel Bramble Badenach-Nicolson from Hailsham Chambers.
Rhian Parsons said: “This was a long and harrowing inquest. The family acted with bravery and dignity throughout. It should not be forgotten that at the heart of this is a grieving family who had to witness the prolonged death of a loved one in incredibly difficult circumstances. We can only hope that lessons are learnt from this inquest process.”
