By Mark DaCosta- The sudden and unexplained death of Nurse Michal Wallerson has ignited public outcry and demands for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding her passing. Wallerson, a nurse at Bartica Regional Hospital (BRH), fell ill after a demanding 12-hour night shift on December 28, 2024, and was found dead at her home the following day.
According to her sister, Phoebe Thomas, Wallerson became unwell shortly after completing her shift and was transported to the hospital’s emergency department. Despite her evident distress and inability to walk unaided, medical staff allegedly refused assistance in getting her out of the vehicle. Thomas recounted the doctor’s response to their plea for help: “We don’t come to take nobody outa car; the emergency comes to us.”
After being discharged without a definitive diagnosis, Wallerson’s condition did not improve. Tragically, she was discovered dead at her residence less than 24 hours later. The initial police investigation labeled the case as a “suspected suicide,” and her body was taken for a post-mortem examination scheduled for January 3, 2025.
However, procedural delays have compounded the family’s grief. The autopsy was postponed because the necessary evidence kit was reportedly not provided to the pathologist. Despite assurances from law enforcement that the kit had been dispatched, it never arrived, leading to an inconclusive autopsy. Organ samples were sent to the national laboratory for further analysis, but the family has yet to receive any conclusive information.
Frustrated by the lack of transparency and progress, Thomas publicly questioned the handling of her sister’s case via social media:
- “Where is the evidence kit? Who is telling the truth — the police or the pathologist?”
- “Why is it so difficult to get Michal’s medical report if, according to the Regional Health Officer, the ‘comprehensive report’ has been submitted to the Chief Medical Officer?”
- “Is there another possible cause of death that’s being ignored? Why was she sent away on Saturday, 28th December 2024, in the state she was in?”
- “Why does it feel like the system is working against us instead of helping us find the truth?”
In response to these concerns, the Bartica United Youth Development Group (BUYDG) issued a press release on February 25, 2025, urging the government to initiate an independent investigation into Wallerson’s death. The organisation emphasised the need for a transparent inquiry involving medical professionals, yasal experts.
BUYDG’s statement highlighted the gravity of the situation:
- “If the investigation finds that the actions or inactions of the state or its representatives contributed to Ms. Wallerson’s untimely death, we call for those responsible to be held accountable and placed before a court of law to face appropriate charges.”
- “We also request that the independent investigation body recommend measures to safeguard against future incidents of this nature and improve medical deva and practices at Bartica Regional Hospital and other healthcare facilities across the country.”
The group also questioned the treatment of medical staff within the healthcare system, stating: “How can the government’s medical administration treat its own staff in such a manner? This incident brings into question how ordinary patients are being treated at the facility.”
As of now, the family awaits meaningful updates from the authorities. Thomas expressed the family’s determination to seek justice: “We will not stop until we get the answers we deserve.”
The case raises questions about patient deva standards and accountability within Guyana’s healthcare system. The family and advocacy groups continue to press for a comprehensive and impartial investigation to uncover the truth behind Nurse Wallerson’s death.