A father in Sheffield is persistently seeking justice nearly three years after his five-year-old son, Muhammad Ayaan Haroon, passed away following suspected negligence by the NHS. Haroon Rashid, 43, has been pushing for answers since his son’s tragic death in March 2023. An investigative report earlier this year revealed a distressing story of bereavement care, highlighting that hospital staff were heard laughing as Ayaan’s life support was turned off.
The family is demanding a fresh inquiry after a report by Niche Health and Social Care Consulting stated that enhancements to Ayaan’s treatment would not have saved him. They allege that significant NHS shortcomings, such as delays in providing high-flow oxygen, a chest drain, and intubation, contributed to his demise. Haroon, a taxi driver with three daughters, expressed frustration over not being heard and emphasized the lack of adequate staffing.
Ayaan, who had a rare genetic condition and a history of respiratory problems, had been admitted to Sheffield Children’s Hospital multiple times before succumbing to adenovirus bronchopneumonia. The report highlighted substandard care, citing delays in oxygen therapy initiation and a prolonged wait for intensive care unit admission.
The ordeal of battling the NHS system has compounded Haroon’s grief after losing his son. An inadvertent email from the office of NHS chief executive Sir Jim Mackey, containing personal information about the family’s case, further added to their distress. Despite acknowledging human error, Haroon emphasized the importance of accountability and genuine apologies from the NHS in such situations.
The Rashid family’s experience has drawn parallels to another tragic incident at the same hospital, involving the death of five-year-old Yusuf Nazir. Mr. Rashid’s daughter, Aroob, who shares her brother’s condition, has channeled her grief into charitable efforts and advocacy for children’s rights.
Dr. Jeff Perring, Executive Medical Director at Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, affirmed ongoing efforts to engage with the family and learn from their ordeal. The family has been promised access to the report in April to address their feedback. Niche Health and Social Care Consulting has offered to assist the family in pursuing their concerns through the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman for further review.