Parents Instruct Specialist Surgery Abroad Lawyers To Support Them Through Inquest Process

The devastated parents of a British mum who died following cosmetic surgery in Turkey have spoken of how they hope an inquest will provide them with answers regarding her death.

Khelisyah Ashamu, an IT professional from Romford, was aged 26 when she died on 9 February, 2019. Seven days earlier she had undergone Roux - en Y gastric bypass surgery at Izmir Ekol Hospital in Turkey. Khelisyah had booked the surgery through a company called Get Slim In Turkey.

Following her death, Khelisyah’s parents instructed expert surgery abroad lawyers at Irwin Mitchell to investigate how their daughter had died, and to support them through the inquest process.

Khelisyah’s parents have spoken of how they hope an inquest into their daughter’s death will  provide their family with answers.

Expert Opinion

“As we approach the three year anniversary of Khelisyah’s tragic death, the family’s wait for answers continues and understandably they remain devastated by what happened.

“Despite the time that has passed, the family is still no nearer to understanding what happened to Khelisyah.

“Bringing up a young son who has lost his mum has made the last few years very difficult for Khelisyah’s family. While nothing can bring her back, we’re determined to support the family and provide them with the vital answers they deserve.
If the inquest identifies any issues regarding Khelisyah’s treatment it’s vital that lessons are learned to ensure others don’t have to suffer in the same way.” Cheryl Palmer-Hughes - Partner and Head of our International Serious Injury Desk

Khelisyah arrived in Turkey for the surgery on 31 January, 2019, and underwent her procedure on 2 February 2019. Her father flew out to his daughter’s bedside on 5 February having heard of her deteriorating condition. Khelisyah’s life support was turned off and she sadly died on 9 February 2019.

Khelisyah’s parents said: “Khelisyah was such a loving daughter and adored her young son. It’s simply heartbreaking for us all facing life without her. There’s not a day goes by without some reminder of what she meant to the family and what her death has cost us.

“Khelisyah wanted the surgery following her pregnancy and caesarean section to feel better about herself. It was supposed to be a straightforward procedure. She was due to return home the day after her procedure and we would pick her up from the airport. That our beloved little girl never came home is something we can never get over.

“In the space of a few terrible days, a young woman with everything to live for was gone, leaving us devastated and our hearts break for her son, our grandson, who will never know his mother.

“We know the inquest is going to be difficult but time has not lessened our need for answers.”

An inquest into Khelisyah’s death is due to take place on Friday, 21 January 2022, under the jurisdiction of the East London Coroner’s office. The inquest will take place remotely in line with current Covid-19 protocols.