Throughout the inquest, Amber’s parents conveyed their heartbreak and love for their daughter.
Sereta and Lewis expressed deep regret over Amber’s early discharge and the hospital’s failure to fully account for her complex condition.
They believe that if Amber had been observed overnight or readmitted immediately after the first signs of repeated vomiting, her death might have been prevented.
The Milnes family now shares a message to other parents: trust your instincts. Even for routine procedures, you are your child’s best advocate.
Ask questions, insist on clear communication, and ensure that medical teams understand all aspects of your child’s medical history. No operation is completely risk-free, and vigilance can make a life-saving difference.
Hospital Response and Safety Changes
In response to the inquest, Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust issued a formal statement expressing condolences to the Milnes family.
They described Amber’s death as an “immeasurable tragedy” and confirmed that they had conducted a full review of her care.
The hospital has since implemented new guidelines for the care of children undergoing adenotonsillectomy, particularly those with additional health complications such as CVS, to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Why Amber’s Story Matters
Amber Milnes’ death is a stark reminder that even routine surgeries carry risks, particularly for children with underlying or rare medical conditions.
Thorough preoperative evaluation of complex medical conditions
Clear communication between parents and healthcare teams
Careful post-operative monitoring, particularly for children with conditions like CVS
Advocacy by parents for their child’s safety
For parents and caregivers, Amber’s story is both heartbreaking and instructive.
It highlights that questions, vigilance, and clear communication are critical, even when procedures are considered routine.
