Senior Doctor Calls for Investigation After Son Dies of Sepsis at Hospital Where She Works

Dr. Deborah Burns alleges inadequate care contributed to her son William Hewes' death and says her concerns were ignored during his treatment at Homerton Hospital.

William Hewes, a 22-year-old university student, died of sepsis caused by meningitis within 24 hours of being admitted to Homerton Hospital in January 2023.
His mother, Dr. Deborah Burns, a consultant paediatrician at the same hospital, claims her warnings about his condition were dismissed by medical staff.
Dr. Burns has faced nearly two years of resistance while seeking an open and thorough investigation into her son’s care to prevent similar cases in the future.
The inquest into William’s death, initially scheduled for December 19, has been postponed to February 13, 2025, to examine potential delays in care and lessons to be learned.
Homerton Hospital has since implemented 'Martha's Rule,' allowing patients and families to request urgent treatment reviews, and has expressed condolences to Dr. Burns and her family.