A cold could kill my daughter – hospital visits feel like a death sentence

Rebecca Quayle, a 41-year-old mother-of-three with terminal cancer, faces a perilous risk even from a common cold, according to her mother, Delia Lodge. The fear of exposure to germs in hospital settings has transformed routine visits into moments of intense anxiety for Delia. She now advocates for separate waiting areas, particularly for cancer patients, to mitigate this danger.

Delia’s Campaign for Safe Waiting Areas

Delia, from Prestatyn, Denbighshire, highlighted the stress of sharing spaces with A&E patients. “The environment feels like a ‘death sentence’ for Rebecca,” she said, describing the crowded atmosphere and the presence of individuals with positive Covid tests. She emphasized that even minor illnesses could threaten Rebecca’s life, prompting her to rally support for change.

“Even a common cold could kill Rebecca.”

Delia’s initiative has gathered 2,500 signatures, achieved through conversations with hospital staff and online petitions. She aims to convert one of Ysbyty Glan Clwyd’s 24 treatment rooms into a dedicated area for cancer patients, calling it a “simple issue” to resolve. “The current measures aren’t enough,” she asserted, “because every patient, especially those with cancer, should feel safe in the hospital.”

Health Board Acknowledges Concerns

The Betsi Cadwaladr health board, responsible for north Wales care, confirmed they “fully recognise the concerns raised” by Delia. Chris Lynes, deputy executive director of nursing and midwifery, noted the challenge of finding space within emergency departments that allows for safe isolation while enabling staff to monitor patients closely.

“We are not currently able to implement the suggestion of a separate designated area, but our teams are committed to providing safe, compassionate care while exploring improvements.”

Cancer Research Wales echoed Delia’s call, stressing the importance of designated waiting areas for patients with weakened immune systems. Dr. Lee Campbell, head of research, pointed out that delays in treatment could occur if such patients fall ill in shared spaces. “Strict infection control is in place, yet separate areas for cancer patients remain inconsistent,” the charity stated.

Support from a Cancer Survivor

Gemma Bailey, a Manchester-based friend and cancer survivor, joined Delia’s cause. “Crowded waiting areas add anxiety,” she noted, adding that every cough or sneeze becomes a potential threat. Despite her concerns, Delia praised the NHS staff at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, calling them “marvellous, superb, and professional,” but argued that the hospital’s layout exacerbates her daughter’s stress.

Rebecca was diagnosed with primary breast cancer four years ago. Initially hopeful, she later learned the disease had progressed to a terminal stage. Now receiving chemotherapy at Ysbyty Glan Clwyd, her visits are compounded by the need to navigate the A&E department during evenings and weekends when the cancer unit is closed. Delia’s campaign underscores the urgency of creating a safer environment for vulnerable patients.