Latest news with #Bolster
Daily Record
4 days ago
- Health
- Daily Record
Woman discovered dead in bed after dementia patient 'visited room 100 times'
The 95-year-old had advanced dementia and physical limitations in the nursing home. An elderly woman was tragically discovered dead in bed with a duvet over her head after being visited over 100 times that day by another dementia patient, an inquest heard. Marcella O'Sullivan was found deceased in her bedroom at Brid Haven Nursing Home in Mallow, Co Cork, shortly after 8pm on April 13, 2022. The 95-year-old had advanced dementia and physical limitations and died from aspiration of vomit. An inquest in Mallow on June 24 heard from medical staff at the home that another patient, who also had severe dementia, was in the room when they entered at 8.03pm that night. Coroner Frank O'Connell was told that the other woman was a "roamer" who entered the room of other patients and picked up items. CCTV footage analysed by gardai indicated that she went to the room of Mrs O'Sullivan over 100 times on the day she died. The vast majority of her visits lasted a few seconds. The evidence was that the duvet was not over the head of Mrs O'Sullivan when she was last seen by staff shortly after 5pm. Mr O'Connell said that it was accepted that Marcella was physically unable to lift the duvet herself. Assistant State Pathologist, Dr Margaret Bolster, carried out a post-mortem on the deceased. She said that the case was complex in nature, reported the Mirror. Dr Bolster said it was her opinion, and those of her colleagues, that Mrs O'Sullivan died after her airways were covered by the duvet leading to an aspiration of her gastric contents. She said that there was a a history of dysphagia (difficulty of swallowing) which meant that the pensioner was on a liquid diet. Dr Bolster noted that the duvet cover was "less breathable" as it was water proofed. She said that the deceased had a bruise on her tongue. There was also a large amount of vomit. Mrs O'Sullivan had been fed by staff at around 5pm that day. She was comfortable, had her eyes open and the duvet was at her waist. She wasn't checked again by staff until 8.03pm when she was found dead. A decision was made to contact gardai arising out of the circumstances in which Mrs O'Sullivan was found dead. A file was prepared for the DPP. Det Insp John O'Connell said that the woman who was in the room when Mrs O'Suillivan was found dead was assessed by an expert geriatrician. He deemed her not capable of recalling the evening in which Mrs O'Sullivan died. This woman has also since passed away. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Det Insp O'Connell said that the DPP directed that no criminal prosecution be made in the case. He said they were left with two possible explanations. The first scenario was that Mrs O'Sullivan vomited and died with the duvet then being placed over her head by the other patient. Det Insp O'Connell said that the second scenario involved the other dementia patient putting the duvet over Mrs O'Sullivan's head and her aspirating her gastric contents, and dying. Det Insp O'Connell said that there was "no clear evidence" forensic or otherwise to suggest that the other woman intended to cause harm to Mrs O'Sullivan. He said that the other woman "had no history of aggression." The six-person jury recorded an open verdict. The foreman said that they were all of the belief that a third party put the duvet over the head of Mrs O'Sulllivan. However, they couldn't say who that person was or whether it occurred before or after she died. Coroner Frank O'Connell offered his heartfelt condolences to the family of Mrs O'Sullivan whom he said had passed "on to her reward." He thanked the O'Sullivan family for the enormous dignity they had shown during the inquest. He said that it was unfortunate that both families had been put in an "awful position" arising out of the controversy that had occurred. Barrister Christian Douglas, BL, apologised to the family of Mrs O'Sullivan on behalf of Brid Haven nursing home. "Brid Haven nursing home wishes to express our deepest and most sincere apologies...(for) the failings identified. We understand the pain and distress this has caused."
Irish Daily Mirror
09-07-2025
- Irish Daily Mirror
Man, 39, died from single stab wound and death would have been rapid, court told
A 39-year-old man died from a single stab wound to the chest, which measured 13cm in depth, and death would have been very rapid, a pathologist has told the Central Criminal Court. Valeriu Melnic (24) with an address at Calliaghstown Lower, Rathcoole, Co Dublin is charged with murdering Ion Daghi (39) at The Close, Sallins Park, Sallins in Co Kildare on May 12, 2024. Mr Melnic has pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to Mr Daghi's manslaughter. Assistant State Pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster today told Carl Hanahoe SC, prosecuting, that she conducted a postmortem on Mr Daghi's remains on May 12, 2024 after he had been pronounced dead around 5am that morning. Dr Bolster said she was informed that a physical altercation had occurred between two men. The witness said she was told a struggle took place and ultimately Mr Daghi was stabbed to the left side of the chest and collapsed almost immediately. The witness testified that there was a stab wound on the left side of Mr Daghi's chest around the nipple area, which was 5.9cm from the midline. Dr Bolster said it was almost a vertically situated stab wound to the top left side of the chest, which extended through the intercostal muscle between the fifth and sixth ribs. The stab wound had gone through the pericardial sac and there was 250ml of blood present in that area, which meant the heart couldn't beat properly. The stab wound measured 2.5cm in length. Dr Bolster said the stab wound had extended into the outer lower aspect of the right ventricle. The stab wound, which measured 13cm in depth, had not gone right through the heart but into the chamber of the heart. She said 73 milligrams of ethanol was detected in the deceased's system, which is just over 2.5 pints. This was indicative that Mr Daghi had been drinking up to the time of his death. The Irish Mirror's Crime Writers Michael O'Toole and Paul Healy are writing a new weekly newsletter called Crime Ireland. Click here to sign up and get it delivered to your inbox every week In her evidence, Dr Bolster said there were a number of blunt force injuries to the body including bruising to the back of both hands and the knuckles, which indicated offensive or defensive injuries during the altercation. The expert witness said Mr Daghi would have collapsed and death would have been very rapid. There was no evidence of the deceased trying to ward off the knife. Dr Bolster said the blade of a knife recovered from the scene measured 19.5cm in length, which was consistent with having caused the stab wound to the deceased. The witness said Dr Daghi's cause of death was hemorrhage and shock with bleeding into the pericardial sac after a single stab wound to the chest. Under cross-examination, Dr Bolster agreed with Brendan Grehan SC, defending, that the deceased was of muscular build and it was obvious from an examination of his hands that he was a manual labourer. Asked whether the deceased had a number of "fighting injuries" to his hands, Dr Bolster agreed, saying it "was in keeping with the offensive or defensive" injuries. Dr Bolster also agreed that the blade of the knife was 19.5cm long whereas the injury she noted was 13cm, which meant the knife had not "gone in the whole way". "The knife was not plunged to the hilt?" asked Mr Grehan, which Dr Bolster said was the case. The witness also agreed that 13cm was only "an approximate measurement" and it didn't mean the blade "went 13cm, depending on the movement of the body". She said she couldn't comment on the dynamics of how the blade "went in" in terms of the struggle taking place between the two men. In his opening address, Carl Hanahoe SC, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, said it was the State's case that the accused 'armed himself with a kitchen knife' and stabbed Mr Daghi once in the chest following an altercation after the pair had spent the night drinking together. The trial continues tomorrow before Mr Justice David Keane and a jury of eight men and four women.
Chicago Tribune
27-06-2025
- Health
- Chicago Tribune
Best cat bed
Whether you are shopping for a new kitten or an elderly cat, finding a cat bed is the best way to ensure that your cat feels comfortable and secure within your home. Designed to be comfortable, warm and durable, cat beds provide your cat with a safe space to relax and sleep throughout the day. Whether you have a cat who prefers to curl-up, stretch out or lie in the sun, a cat bed is sure to elevate their sleep and keep them happy. With so many different kinds of cat beds on the market, you are sure to find a bed that both you and your cat will love. If you are in the market for a comfortable cat bed that is easy to clean, the top pick is the FRISCO Plush Orthopedic Front Bolster cat bed. Size The first thing to consider when shopping for your cat's new bed is the size of the bed. Obviously, no cat wants to snuggle up in a bed that is too small or too big, but the size of the cat bed also impacts the range of motion your cat will have while they sleep. For cats, feeling secure and safe as they sleep is incredibly important, so choosing a bed that allows your cat to curl up or stretch out without feeling cramped is the best way to ensure full comfort. Most cat beds are designed to be about 15 to 20 inches in diameter with a plush pillow center and soft sided walls. This design allows for your cat to easily stretch out or curl up, depending on their preferred sleeping position. Material Most cat beds are made using plush cotton or poly-fiber materials along the bottom and sides. These materials ensure a comfortable sleeping area, while also being flexible enough to adapt to any movement that your cat may make as they sleep. When it comes to the center of the bed, most cat beds utilize a thick cotton padding or memory foam. This padding creates a supportive cradle, allowing your cat to sleep comfortably and securely. Depending on your cat's needs, you may find it worthwhile to invest in a bed that offers more padding along the center or the sides. For older cats, finding a bed with a memory foam center is the best way to ensure full support and comfort as they sleep. For cats that prefer to nest, a bed with thicker sides may be the best option, as it offers a more structured sleeping experience. Your cat's sleeping habits Every cat has a different way of sleeping, so to ensure the best experience, be sure to find a bed that mimics your cat's current sleeping habits. While many cats prefer to nest or snuggle up as they sleep, some cats prefer to be stretched out. For cats that nest or snuggle, a covered cat bed may be the best option as they offer a little more security than other open bed options. For cats that prefer to be stretched out, an open bed that has a large diameter and low side walls may be the best since it offers more room to stretch out. To ensure that your cat gets the most out of their new cat bed, do your best to find a bed that can adapt to their needs. Style With so many different options on the market, many cat beds are designed to combine practicality and functionality, making them both stylish for you and comfortable for your cat. Many traditional open cat beds come in a range of colors and are designed to match a wide variety of home aesthetics. When it comes to a more elegant cat bed, there are elevated and hanging cat bed options that come in a variety of colors and designs. Whether you are looking for a traditional open cat bed or a more upscale option, there is no doubt you will be able to find a bed that both you and your cat will love. Warmth Depending on your cat, you may find it worthwhile to check into cat beds that feature self-warming technology. By utilizing insulated fabric and padding, these self-warming beds help to capture your cat's natural body warmth, creating a warm and cozy sleeping area. While these self-warming bed options may not be ideal for every cat, they are sure to benefit hairless, short-haired or elderly cats. Ease of cleaning While every cat owner recognizes the importance of finding a comfortable bed for their beloved pet, no one wants to deal with the hassle of hand-washing a cat bed. To save yourself any hassle, you may find it worthwhile to choose a cat bed that is machine washable or has a removable cover. While most cat beds do feature machine-washable capabilities, there are some that utilize a removable cover that can be easily thrown in the washer for easy cleaning. Depending on the style of cat bed you choose, you can expect to spend anywhere from $20-$60 on a cat bed. Typically, cat beds that are aesthetically pleasing, feature orthopedic padding or boast self-warming capabilities tend to be the most expensive. What type of bed do cats prefer? A. While many cats prefer beds that offer more security and padding, be sure to keep an eye out for your cat's current sleeping habits. Does your cat tend to stretch out across the couch? Or do they snuggle up into blankets? If your cat prefers to sleep out in the open, a cat bed that is roomy and open may be the best bet. For cats that tend to curl-up or nest, a cat bed that is a bit smaller or has a hooded top may be the best option. To ensure the best experience for your cat, try to find a bed that mimics their sleeping habits. How do I wash a cat bed? A. In general, you should plan on washing your cat's bed about once a month to help limit pet hair and curb odors. Most beds can be washed on a gentle cycle in hot water and can be dried on a low setting. When washing your cat's bed, it is recommended that you use a fragrance-free, gentle laundry detergent to avoid any potential allergic reactions. Top cat bed FRISCO Plush Orthopedic Front Bolster cat bed What you need to know: This open-style bed has plush padding, making it the perfect option for older cats or cats who prefer to stretch out while they sleep. What you'll love: The plush side walls and 4-inch thick pillow bed offer incredible comfort and security for cats of all ages. The dipped front entry makes this bed perfect for elderly cats, while the large bed area ensures full range of motion for cats who prefer to stretch out or snuggle up as they sleep. This cat bed is available in three different sizes and has a machine-washable, removable cover for easy cleanup. What you should consider: This cat bed is neither chew- nor scratch-resistant, so it may not be the best option for kittens or high-energy cats. Top cat bed for the money Mora Pets Self Warming Cat Bed What you need to know: This soft bed is the perfect option for cats who require a little extra warmth or security while they sleep. What you'll love: It's made of material that conducts your cat's natural body heat to make them warmer. It's not crinkly on the inside, so your cat can enjoy peace and quiet while they rest. What you should consider: The pad isn't very thick. Worth checking out FRISCO Modern Round Elevated cat bed What you need to know: This bed is the perfect option for cat owners who want a comfortable and stylish sleeping area for their cat. What you'll love: The soft-fur lined walls and plush pillow bed, makes this cat bed the perfect option for cats who prefer to snuggle up as they sleep. With a durable bottom and sturdy wooden legs, this cat bed offers a chic look that will fit nearly any aesthetic. The pillow bed does have a machine-washable cover for easy cleaning. This bed is only available in one size. What you should consider: While this cat bed is only elevated by about 4 inches, you need to ensure that the bed is fully balanced before allowing your cats to sleep in it. If the bed is unbalanced, it could easily become wobbly or flip as your cat enters or exits the bed. BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. BestReviews and its newspaper partners may earn a commission if you purchase a product through one of our links. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The Irish Sun
20-05-2025
- The Irish Sun
Tina Satchwell's cause of death couldn't be determined due to skeletal nature of remains, husband's murder trial hears
TINA Satchwell's body was found wrapped in a soiled sheet and black plastic, her husband's murder trial heard today. And her cause of death could not be determined due to the skeletal nature of her remains after they were found buried at her 2 Tina's remains were discovered under the living room stairs in 2023 Credit: Collect She also revealed a dressing gown belt had been knotted to the front of the 45-year-old's chest in a 'very unusual position', which the expert witness said is very often used for carrying a body. Her husband, Richard The Central Criminal Dr Bolster said she went to the home on October 12, 2023, where the deceased's skeletal remains were uncovered from a hole with a depth of approximately 62cm. Read more in Irish news She told prosecutor Gerardine Small SC her remains, which looked to be in a considerable state of 'longstanding disarray', were discovered lying face down in what was effectively a grave. Dr Bolster conducted an autopsy on the night of October 12, which continued into the morning of October 13, at Cork city mortuary. She said Tina had been wearing pyjamas, which were covered by a dressing gown from It it had been wrapped in a soiled sheet, which appeared to be a bed sheet. On top of that, it was covered in a layer of black plastic. Most read in Irish News DRESSING GOWN BELT A gold-coloured Playboy-branded purse had been removed from the left pocket of the dressing gown. Cards in Tina's name were inside. Dr Bolster said she cut the belt of the dressing gown to remove it and it hadn't been previously cut. It wasn't threaded through the garment's loops and was instead extended over the left side of the neck, under the right shoulder and arm, under the body and then knotted on the front of the chest. The witness said the dressing gown top had disintegrated and multiple ribs and vertebrae had come apart through decomposition. She told the jury the skull had separated from the rest of the body as a result of the natural process of decomposition. One of the arms and femurs had also been disarticulated. And Dr Bolster explained there was formation of 'adipocere' on parts of the remains, which forms in decomposing tissue in warm and moist environments. GLASS SHARDS The expert witness testified that four pieces of glass were taken from Tina's scalp and five from the rest of the body. But asked if it was possible the glass came from the sheet, she said she could not say. The witness said part of the body had been skeletonised and she could not identify external marks and injuries due to this. And Dr Bolster said an internal examination was not applicable as there were no remaining organs. CAUSE OF DEATH She said there was no evidence of any fractures of the bones, including the hyoid bone in the neck. An X-ray of the hands was carried out and it showed no evidence of fractures. Due to the very long autopsy interval, Tina's cause of death could not be declared. She added: 'It could not be determined due to the skeletal nature of the remains.' Returning to the dressing gown belt, Dr Bolster said the significance of it over the front of Tina's neck was unclear. She added: 'It was in a very unusual position as there had been significant moving and wrapping of the body after death.' 'VERY DIFFICULT' A reconstruction video was shown to the jury as to how she recalled the belt being wrapped around the remains. Asked by Brendan Grehan SC, for Mr Satchwell, whether the belt appeared to be like 'something used to carry the body', Dr Bolster replied: 'That's exactly my thoughts.' She added: 'It's very difficult to move a deceased's body around and very often I find ligatures are used to move a body from an area.' The trial previously heard that Mr Satchwell initially told But he informed officers that he had no concerns over her welfare, feeling she had left due to a deterioration in their relationship. The accused formally reported Tina missing that May but her body was not discovered until October 2023, when gardai carried out 'an invasive search' of the Satchwell home. NO RING RECOVERY When re-arrested on suspicion of Tina's murder, Mr Satchwell told The Meanwhile, Det Gda David Kelleher told how Tina's dressing gown had been photographed and searched for her wedding ring in February of this year. He told Mr Grehan this was done as Mr Satchwell had said he placed the ring in a pocket of the gown. However, the ring has not been recovered. TRIAL CONTINUES The jury previously heard from a forensic scientist who said the gown and cord were not suitable for examination as they were too damp, mouldy and brittle. Mr Grehan asked Det Gda Kelleher if it was possible the ring fell out of the gown, which had partially disintegrated. The officer said he could not be sure. The trial continues before Mr Justice Paul McDermott and a jury of five men and seven women. 2 Richard Satchwell's court case continues Credit: John Delea - The Sun Dublin
Irish Examiner
20-05-2025
- Irish Examiner
Richard Satchwell murder trial hears harrowing evidence about condition of his wife's decomposed body
WARNING: The following article contains details some readers may find upsetting Red finger nails, a skull decapitated due to decomposition but with hair still attached, and bones protruding through clothing were found at the autopsy of missing Cork woman Tina Satchwell. Mrs Satchwell was 45 when she went missing from her home on 3 Grattan Street, Youghal on March 20, 2017, the Central Criminal Court heard. Her skeletal remains were found six and a half years later, buried beneath the sitting room floor of that Cork home. Her husband, Richard Satchwell, 58, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of his wife, Tina Satchwell, nee Dingivan, at their home on 3 Grattan St, Youghal, between March 19 and March 20, both dates inclusive. Mrs Satchwell's bones were protruding from her dressing gown but some soft tissue remained, Assistant State Pathologist Dr Margaret Bolster told the Central Criminal Court after she conducted an autopsy on Mrs Satchwell's remains. Her Tweedie Pie tattoo was still visible on her chest and a bar piercing was found on her bellybutton 'Some bunny loves me' was written on some of her clothing. Tina Satchwell's cause of death could not be determined due to the skeletal nature of her remains, the court heard. Fingers flexed, some of her nails had fallen off during excavation. But a false pink nail remained on the ring finger of her left hand, Dr Bolster said. Hair found on Mrs Satchwell's remains was a brassy brown colour. Dr Bolster, who has carried out more than 33,000 autopsies, explained the colour of hair changes after death. No prescribed drugs or drugs of abuse were found when samples of her hair were sent for toxicology analysis, meaning she had not consumed any drugs or medication in the 90 days before her death. She was found in a shallow grave in her home covered in a plastic sheet, with her body wrapped in a fabric sheet, which was soiled. Some of Mrs Satchwell's bones were protruding through it and soil and debris was found on top of it. Under that sheet, Mrs Satchwell's body was wearing a dressing gown. A gold Playboy purse was found in the left pocket, containing her public service card, a Rathcormac car boot sale card, an Xtravision membership card, a Tesco club card, a Boots advantage card and a Holland & Barrett card. Shards of glass were found on her scalp and body. Dr Bolster and bone expert Laureen Buckley were brought to 3 Grattan St, Youghal, by gardaí on October 12, 2023. They helped with the dig of the clandestine grave where Mrs Satchwell's remains were found. Mrs Satchwell's body was removed from the shallow grave and was taken to the mortuary in Cork University Hospital, where Dr Bolster conducted the autopsy on October 12 and into the morning of October 13, 2023. Mrs Satchwell's cause of death could not be determined due to the skeletal nature of her remains, the court heard. There was no evidence of any bone fractures, including to the hyoid bone which fractures in some 70% of manual strangulations, Dr Bolster said. No damage to Mrs Satchwell's nails was identified. No evidence of trauma was found on the body. No bruising was found in what small amount of muscle tissue was left. An X-ray of the hands showed no evidence of fractures. A dressing gown belt was knotted in an unusual way around the body, looping around both the chest and stomach. It may have been tied in this way to make the body more easy to move, Dr Bolster said. A deceased body is difficult to move and very often a ligature is used to assist with moving the body, she said. Mrs Satchwell was first reported missing by her husband on March 24, 2017. Her remains were found wrapped in plastic and buried beneath a concrete floor under the stairwell in their terraced home in Youghal in October, 2023. Her husband has been charged with her murder. The trial continues.
