Mum-of-Two, 31, Tragically Dies After Complications From Cancer Surgery
A coroner has concluded that stem cell transplant treatment was a contributing factor in the death of Devon Leigh, a 31-year-old mother and nursery room leader from Hyde, who passed away on June 4, 2024, according to Liverpool Echo. Devon had been diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia at the age of 29 and underwent a stem cell transplant as part of her treatment.
During the inquest, it was revealed that complications arose following the transplant. Devon developed Graft vs. Host Disease, a condition where the body rejects donated tissue, which then progressed to post-transplant thrombotic angiopathy—a serious condition affecting blood vessels. Ultimately, multiple organ failure was listed as the cause of death, reported by the Manchester Evening News.
Assistant coroner Zak Golombeck emphasized that while Devon’s underlying leukemia was a naturally occurring condition, her death resulted from recognized complications of the medical treatment she received. At Manchester Coroners’ Court, he stated, “It was the stem cell transplantation which is an unnatural disease process.”
The court heard that Devon’s family declined the option for the inquest to be conducted in writing, instead choosing to attend in person. Mr. Golombeck offered his condolences, saying, “I would like to offer my sincerest condolences to all of you for your loss and for those condolences to be extended to all the family who are not present today.”
The inquest also touched on the family’s concerns about the conditions of the hospital wards where Devon was treated. However, Mr. Golombeck clarified that the inquest’s scope was limited to the medical causes of her death and could not address every aspect of her hospital care.
Devon’s partner, John Mawdesley, paid tribute to her, describing Devon as “a truly wonderful person with a loving nature and an infectious personality. She was a doting mother and partner who lit up every room she walked into.”
The coroner recorded a narrative conclusion, stating that Devon’s death resulted from “recognized complications of necessary medical treatment.” Devon’s case highlights the complex and sometimes unpredictable challenges that arise in treating aggressive forms of cancer. Her loss leaves behind a grieving family and a lasting legacy of love and light.