A grieving family is seeking explanations for the death of their son, who passed away 25 years after receiving intensive treatment that ultimately led to his demise.
Collin Junior Lou Macari Stoke City Price, named in honor of his father’s fondness for the football club, succumbed at the young age of 27. His medical journey began at the age of two when doctors diagnosed him with a malignant brain tumor known as medulloblastoma, following concerns over developmental delays, seizures, and lethargy.
The tumor was located in the cerebellum, a critical area of the brain responsible for movement and coordination. Through a rigorous regimen of surgery and radiation, medical professionals successfully treated the disease. However, the treatment had unforeseen tragic consequences.
In January 2024, over two decades later, Collin was admitted to the Royal Stoke University Hospital after experiencing seizures. Subsequent scans revealed the emergence of another brain tumor, identified as a glioblastoma resulting from the childhood radiation therapy that initially saved his life. Despite efforts, Collin succumbed to the illness on June 22 at the Douglas Macmillan Hospice, with no possibility of a cure.
The family contends that Collin’s death could have been preventable, citing the annual CT scans that exposed him to unnecessary radiation. They believe that these scans, along with his initial treatment, may have contributed to the development of the second tumor. They argue that earlier detection could have prolonged Collin’s life and improved his quality of life.
Dr. Adam Fullagar, a clinical oncologist at the Royal Stoke, acknowledged the likelihood that the second tumor stemmed from the childhood irradiation. He mentioned that while the tumor might have been detected earlier, the aggressive nature of glioblastomas could have limited the impact of early detection on the outcome.
Regarding the risks associated with CT scans, Dr. Fullagar expressed that he would not have recommended annual tests, although he deemed the risk minimal. The primary cause of Collin’s second tumor was attributed to the intensive radiation treatment he underwent as a child.
Coroner Andrew Barkley affirmed that medical professionals acted with the best intentions, facing risks from various angles. He concluded that Collin’s death at the Douglas MacMillan Hospice was a result of rare but recognized complications of necessary medical intervention.
Paying tribute to her beloved son, Zoe Phillips fondly remembered Collin’s humor, warmth, and resilience, emphasizing his positive impact on those around him. She described him as a joyous and helpful individual who faced his medical challenges with courage and humor, leaving a lasting void in their lives.