Finding into death of David Ronald Thompson

64y · Male·Complications of advanced rectal carcinoma

David Ronald Thompson, a 64-year-old man with severe intellectual disability and complex medical needs, died from complications of advanced rectal carcinoma. He resided in specialist disability accommodation and had been under palliative care following a diagnosis of anorectal cancer in September 2023. He was admitted to hospital on 11 April 2024 with lethargy, anaemia and abdominal pain, transferred to Eastern Health Wantirna for end-of-life care, and died one week later on 18 April 2024. The death was not unexpected and no concerns were identified regarding care provided. His family reported he was well cared for throughout his life. This case illustrates appropriate end-of-life planning and palliative care management in a vulnerable person with intellectual disability.