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NHS faces questions over couple's death 17 days apart at same Norfolk hospital

5 1
02.01.2026

Peter and Philip MacAllan are demanding answers from the James Paget Hospital, in Gorleston, following the deaths of their parents, Barbara and Andrew.

Their mother died first, they believe after mistakes were made regarding resuscitation protocols.

Little over a fortnight later, their father died while undergoing tests for ill-health.

A post mortem examination found he had pancreatic cancer – a condition his sons say they were able to diagnose retrospectively within minutes using ChatGPT.

Peter MacAllan, 51, said: “Our parents were ordinary, English people who worked hard, paid their taxes and trusted the NHS.

“The hospital missed my father’s cancer, let my mother die alone and unlawfully signed away her right to life.

“We’ve spent nine months fighting for answers.”

The brothers believe a "series of errors" contributed to the deaths and are waiting for inquests to be held for both parents to see what lessons can be learned.

James Paget University Hospital in Gorleston (Image: James Paget University Hospital)

Barbara and Andrew, of Great Yarmouth, had both been admitted to hospital - Andrew as a result of his undiagnosed illness and Barbara because of heart problems, which her sons believe were brought on by the stress of her husband's plight.

The siblings claim clinicians did not follow guidelines on the signing of a Recommended Summary Plan for Emergency Care and Treatment form........

© Eastern Daily Press