Norfolk coroner, William Armstrong

Patient died at Norfolk secure hospital after suffering heart failure

Thursday, February 21, 2013
10:16 AM

A patient at a secure hospital in Burston died after suffering heart failure caused by an underlying condition, an inquest heard.

Ash Stoladay, previously known as Ivan Stoladay, began complaining of breathlessness when he came down for breakfast at Burston House on January 9.

Nurses called NHS Direct, who sent an ambulance when the 59-year-old began sweating profusely.

Paramedics and a doctor came to treat Mr Stoladay, but his condition deteriorated rapidly and he died shortly afterwards.

A jury recorded a verdict of death by natural causes at an inquest in Norwich yesterday.

Mr Stoladay, who had learning difficulties and a history of offending in his youth, had been in institutional care since 1969 and was being detained at Burston House under the Mental Health Act.

Norfolk coroner William Armstrong said only that Mr Stoladay had been detained for “serious” criminal offences.

Dr Fola Essan, a consultant psychologist at Burston House, said Mr Stoladay had been a patient since March 2009, and had regular health checks. He suffered from a hardening of the arteries around his heart and reduced blood flow, which contributed to his acute heart failure.

Dr Essan said he was “a likeable member of the patient group”, who received regular visits from his brother who lived in Cromer.

She added: “He also went out about once a week for shopping, recreational activities or voluntary work at a garden and conservation area.”