Mother's fight for justice after son's fatal heart defect surgery denial

Mother's fight for justice after son's fatal heart defect surgery denial

Christina Sanchez
Christina Sanchez
2 Min.
A baby sleeping peacefully in a hospital bed, wrapped in a white blanket with a bandage around their head.

Mother's fight for justice after son's fatal heart defect surgery denial

Victoria Tokmakova, a teacher from Chita, faced a devastating loss after her son Pasha died from a congenital heart defect. The boy's planned surgery was abruptly cancelled, despite earlier medical warnings about his heart health. Authorities later found no wrongdoing, but his mother continues to demand accountability.

At six months into her twin pregnancy, Victoria learned that Pasha had serious heart defects. Doctors identified a congenital heart defect, an atrial septal defect, and abnormal aortic drainage. Despite the risks, Pasha was born healthy but was immediately moved to intensive care after his heart condition was confirmed.

Victoria secured a medical quota and travelled to Novosibirsk for the birth and Pasha's scheduled heart surgery. However, the operation was suddenly called off, and his heart health declined over time. On December 17, he died from pulmonary hypertension linked to his untreated heart defect.

Following his death, Victoria filed complaints with Russia's Investigative Committee, the Prosecutor General's Office, and the Ministry of Health. The Novosibirsk Regional Health Ministry responded, stating that medical consultations had found no need for surgery. An inspection by the local branch of Roszdravnadzor also found no violations, and no criminal case was opened.

The official investigations concluded without charges, but Victoria remains determined to pursue legal action. She insists that those responsible for her son's care must be held accountable. Pasha's death has left her searching for answers and justice.

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