Ava Hodgkinson, a two-year-old from Southport, Merseyside, tragically passed away after contracting Strep A bacterial infection along with her siblings. Despite her siblings recovering, Ava developed sepsis and died in December 2022. Her mother, Jade, described Ava as a beautiful, caring, funny soul. An inquest into Ava’s death was postponed as it requires a jury-led investigation due to the notifiable disease. Several NHS entities are expected to provide evidence during the upcoming hearing, including the Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust and Ava’s GP practice.
Following Ava’s death, her mother, Jade, expressed the immense pain and heartache the family was experiencing. She described the loss of Ava as “living hell” and expressed the agony of witnessing something no parent should ever go through. Jade highlighted Ava’s wonderful qualities and the special bond she shared with her siblings. In memory of Ava, her mum founded Ava’s Toy and Book Bank, which aims to provide toys, books, and games to children across West Lancashire. Jade expressed the family’s enduring love for Ava and the deep impact her passing had on their lives.
Medical professionals are required by law to report suspected cases of infectious diseases such as Strep A to the appropriate health authorities. Ava’s mother urged for awareness about the importance of timely reporting to prevent other families from going through similar tragedies. She shared the family’s struggle to come to terms with Ava’s sudden and devastating loss and emphasized their eternal love for Ava. Despite the darkness of their grief, the family finds solace in the memories and love they shared with Ava, pledging to carry on with the help of her siblings who provide them with a sense of purpose and strength during this difficult time.
The inquest into Ava’s death has been postponed due to the nature of the case and the need for a jury-led investigation. Various NHS entities are expected to provide evidence during the hearing to shed light on the circumstances surrounding Ava’s passing. Key entities such as the Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Ava’s GP practice, and a local pharmacy are likely to contribute to the investigation. The delay in the inquest underscores the complexity and seriousness of Ava’s case, necessitating a thorough and comprehensive examination of the events leading to her untimely demise.
The tragic loss of Ava has left her family and community devastated, prompting her mother to take action in her memory through the establishment of Ava’s Toy and Book Bank. This initiative reflects the love and impact Ava had during her short life and aims to bring joy and comfort to children in need. Jade’s heartfelt words capture the profound grief and heartache experienced by the family, highlighting the enduring love for Ava and the struggle to navigate life without her. Through their collective efforts, the family honors Ava’s memory and seeks to create positive change in her name, ensuring she will always be remembered and cherished.
