Caption: Jasher François. Photo: Facebook
By Sue-Ann Wayow
PRIME Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar is calling for full investigation into the sudden death of six-year-old Jasher François, after being warded at the San Fernando Teaching Hospital.
A press release from the Ministry of Health, sent on Friday, stated, “Following reports surrounding the circumstances of the death of 6-year-old Jasher Francois at the San Fernando Teaching Hospital, the Honourable Kamla Persad Bissessar SC, has instructed that a full and urgent investigation be conducted into the matter. The Minister of Health, the Honourable Dr Lackram Bodoe, has taken immediate steps to initiate the investigation, to ensure that all relevant facts are gathered swiftly and transparently.”
The release shared, “The Prime Minister and Minister of Health extends deepest condolences to the Francois family on the passing of six-year-old Jasher Francois and recognises the profound pain of losing a child and extends sincere wishes for comfort and resilience during this time of grief.”
On Thursday, Jasher’s parents, Aaron and Amy François released an emotional video questioning what went wrong and demanding answers.
Jasher’s parents said they took a regularly healthy Jasher to the hospital for a dry cough.
According to the François’ young Jasher was alert and showed no signs of critical illness. Jasher was warded over night and kept on oxygen and a nebuliser.
The François’ said at no point were they told their son’s condition was critical.
In their video, Jasher’s father said on Thursday morning a nurse administered magnesium sulphate via an IV. He said after the medication was administered his son began to complain of burning in his hand and started to vomit.
He said the medication was stopped and so did Jasher’s symptoms, but they returned when the medication was re-administered.
Aaron François said minutes later little Jasher became unresponsive and could not be revived despite emergency interventions.
Jasher’s parents had requested an independent autopsy at the Forensic Science Centre and filed a Freedom of Information (FOI) request for all records relating to Jasher’s care.
The video had since gone viral with the hashtag #JusticeForJashe, drawing outrage and criticism from the public.
Responding, the South-West Regional Health Authority (SWRHA) in a release stated a formal case review was underway and the findings would be shared with the François family once completed.
The SWRHA further expressed their condolences and had offered counselling to the family.
