Prashant Sreekumar dies after an eight-hour wait at Grey Nuns Hospital, sparking urgent questions about emergency care delays in Canada.
Indian-Origin Father Dies After Long ER Wait in Canada
A heartbreaking tragedy unfolded in Edmonton when 44-year-old Prashant Sreekumar, a devoted father of three, lost his life after waiting more than eight hours in a hospital emergency room without adequate care. The incident has raised urgent questions about emergency healthcare response times in Canada.
Severe Chest Pain Ignored
On December 22, Prashant suffered intense chest pain while at work. A client rushed him to Grey Nuns Community Hospital in southeast Edmonton. Upon arrival, he was triaged but asked to sit in the waiting area rather than being immediately treated.
Prashant’s father, Kumar Sreekumar, described the scene: “He told me, ‘Papa, I cannot bear the pain.’” Despite repeatedly informing the staff that his pain was “15 out of 10,” the only treatment he received was Tylenol.
Rising Blood Pressure Overlooked
During the prolonged wait, hospital staff periodically checked Prashant’s blood pressure. According to his family, it kept climbing. In a social media video, his wife said his blood pressure had spiked to 210—yet he was still only given painkillers.
Tragic Outcome
After more than eight hours, Prashant was finally called into the emergency treatment area. Moments later, he collapsed, clutching his chest. Staff attempted resuscitation, but it was too late. He passed away from what appeared to be a cardiac arrest.
Prashant leaves behind his grieving wife and three children, aged three, 10, and 14.
Hospital Response
Grey Nuns Community Hospital, managed by Covenant Health, expressed sympathy for the family but declined to comment on patient care due to privacy laws. The hospital confirmed that the case is under review by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner.
A spokesperson said, “We offer our sympathy to the patient’s family and friends. There is nothing more important than the safety and care of our patients and staff.”
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