Tragic Headache Misdiagnosis: Mum Dies After Being Sent Home

A 38-year-old fashion designer, Octavia Hughes, tragically lost her life to a brain bleed after her severe headaches were repeatedly misdiagnosed as migraines. Octavia first experienced headaches in early September, initially dismissing them until they persisted. She consulted her GP on September 14, but was sent home, advised it was likely a migraine.

Undeterred, Octavia sought further medical attention the following day, calling 111 and attending A&E. However, she was again told it was a migraine and discharged. A third visit to A&E on September 17 yielded the same outcome. Tragically, the next morning, Octavia woke with stroke symptoms and was rushed to a different hospital.

Doctors discovered she had a torn artery in her neck, requiring emergency surgery. Despite these efforts, she suffered a bleed on the brain and was transferred to King's College Hospital in London. Sadly, medical professionals could do no more, and Octavia passed away on September 23, leaving behind her eight-year-old daughter, Dolly.

Her friend Paula Chappell has since established a fundraiser to support Dolly, which has already garnered over £27,000, highlighting the profound impact Octavia had on those around her. Hospital bosses have offered their condolences and pledged to assist in answering the family's questions regarding the circumstances of her death.