The grieving family of a university freshman alleges that medical professionals disregarded his abdominal discomfort and advised him to use paracetamol, only for him to pass away shortly afterward.
Joshua Adiefeh, aged 20, passed away at New Medlock House student housing on September 28, just two weeks into his enrollment at Manchester Metropolitan University. His older brother, Daniel, 21, recounted a conversation with ambulance dispatchers where they refused to dispatch help, deeming the situation not urgent despite Joshua’s deteriorating condition.
A representative from the North West Ambulance Service stated they would conduct an inquiry and share the results directly with the family. Joshua, originally from Bestwood in Nottingham, had relocated to Manchester to pursue studies in accounting and finance. He first complained of stomach pains while in the company of his twin brother, Joel.
Describing the events, Daniel mentioned that Joel contacted emergency services detailing Joshua’s symptoms, which included difficulty breathing. Joshua was in such agony that he could not stand up when Joel attempted to assist him. Despite this, the ambulance service allegedly insisted the situation was not critical and advised paracetamol.
Upon Daniel’s arrival, he found his brother unresponsive. Emergency responders arrived at this point, but Joshua was pronounced dead two hours later. The family later learned that Joshua’s demise was due to an intestinal blockage. In an online tribute, Daniel and Joel praised Joshua as a man of faith and one of the healthiest individuals they knew.
Reflecting on their loss, Daniel shared how challenging it is to be without Joshua, highlighting how they had always been inseparable. In the weeks leading up to his passing, Joshua had experienced intermittent sickness, which he did not consider serious. He had even continued working despite experiencing vomiting episodes.
Daniel explained that Joshua had previously attributed his sickness to fasting and overeating, as he followed a diet that involved eating only once a day and inducing vomiting afterward. However, these symptoms had ceased three weeks before Joshua embarked on his university journey. Manchester Metropolitan University expressed their condolences, confirming Joshua’s passing and extending sympathies to his loved ones.
A spokesperson from the North West Ambulance Service also offered condolences to Joshua’s family and encouraged them to reach out to address any concerns with their patient resolutions team.