In 2019, 17-year-old Jack Dunn from Porth, Wales was rushed to the hospital with severe stomach pain that left him unable to walk. Doctors ran tests and diagnosed him with constipation, gave him laxatives, and sent him home — unaware he was suffering from something far more serious.
Just 24 hours later, Jack was found dead in his bed.
His parents said doctors had scanned his stomach to rule out appendicitis but missed the real issue: diabetic ketoacidosis, a dangerous buildup of ketones usually linked to undiagnosed or uncontrolled type 1 diabetes. Jack’s breathing difficulties were mistaken for anxiety, but his organs were shutting down.
Jack’s father believes his son would still be alive if basic tests — like a glucose check — had been done. Diabetic ketoacidosis is treatable if caught early. Symptoms include fatigue, confusion, extreme thirst, rapid breathing, and frequent urination.