E. 74 Grace Colbourne’s Cancer Story That Should Never Have Happened
Manage episode 489480317 series 3010659
In Part One of this two-part episode, we hear the devastating testimony of Grace Colbourne — a 37-year-old Antiguan woman and former military officer, currently on remand at HMP Bronzefield. After discovering a lump in her breast, Grace began a months-long ordeal of medical delays, denial of choice, and dehumanising treatment while in custody.
Grace gave us her testimony from prison. Her words are voiced by actress Rianna Fay (@riannafay_ on Instagram).
What you're about to hear is a story of neglect, trauma, and survival — of what happens when prison, healthcare, and systemic racism collide.
Content warning: This episode contains descriptions of medical trauma, abuse, and institutional neglect.
Part Two will include another testimony, a response from the NHS, and expert commentary from Professor Rachael Hunter and Dr Jo Armes.
The appalling neglect Grace has suffered is a direct result of failures by the prison healthcare provider, CNWL NHS Foundation Trust—particularly Harriet Tizard and Dave Wilkinson, the so-called clinical leads. Despite having no oncological training, they are blocking cancer diets already endorsed by prison GPs. Their actions border on clinical negligence. CNWL NHS FT is currently under investigation by the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman for the disastrous way it’s mishandling cancer care in prisons. If you're as outraged as we are, write to Bronzefield healthcare and tell them: [email protected]
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Soundtrack: Particles (Revo Main Version) by [Coma-Media]
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Chapters
1. Introduction to Grace Colburn's Story (00:00:00)
2. Cancer Diagnosis and Forced Surgery (00:02:57)
3. Post-Surgery Neglect and Emergency (00:08:09)
4. Second Surgery and Hospital Mistreatment (00:13:39)
5. Return to Prison and Ongoing Struggle (00:19:33)
75 episodes