Conspiracy Theorist Mother Challenges Paramedics Trying to Save Daughter

On August 13, 2025, a tragic story emerged from Uckfield, East Sussex. Paloma Shemirani, a 23-year-old woman, passed away seven months after refusing chemotherapy for her non-Hodgkin lymphoma diagnosis.

Paloma was diagnosed with the condition at Maidstone Hospital in December 2024. However, instead of undergoing the recommended medical treatment, she opted for "alternative" therapies. This decision ultimately led to her demise.

The inquest into Paloma's death revealed a disturbing detail - her mother, Kate Shemirani, a former nurse, had actively discouraged her from seeking conventional cancer treatment. Kate Shemirani, who has gained prominence on social media for sharing COVID-19 conspiracy theories, believes that chemotherapy is "toxic and dangerous."

Tragically, when Paloma suffered a heart attack, the paramedics attempting to save her life faced an additional challenge - Paloma's mother. According to the inquest, Kate Shemirani "presented a challenge" to the emergency responders, further complicating the already dire situation.

The loss of Paloma Shemirani at such a young age is a heartbreaking reminder of the consequences that can arise when individuals reject evidence-based medical advice in favor of unproven alternative treatments. This case highlights the importance of open communication and trust between patients, their families, and healthcare professionals, especially when dealing with life-threatening illnesses.