Faye Rebecca Cunningham was born prematurely and lived with lifelong illness — seizures, memory loss, chronic pain, recurring rash, abnormal bloods and hypertension. Despite this, her symptoms were repeatedly minimised, mislabelled, or dismissed as “anxiety,” “white coat syndrome,” or lifestyle issues.

Her full medical history was never reviewed as a whole.

Patterns were missed. Safeguarding concerns were overlooked.

Her voice was not heard.

Faye died in July 2022 after systemic failings in monitoring, escalation, and continuity of care. Her family believe that if her history had been properly reviewed and her conditions treated, she would likely still be alive today.

We are calling for “Faye’s Law – History Matters”, a national reform to protect patients from mislabelling, missed diagnoses, and gaps caused by outdated legislation.

This law would:

• require clinicians to review medical history (at least 10 years or from birth) when patients present with chronic or repeating symptoms

• end non-evidenced labels that block treatment

• create a national vulnerability/safeguarding flag

• introduce mandatory follow-up for repeated abnormal results

• allow the Ombudsman to review cases before 1996 where harm is ongoing or evidenced

• extend complaint windows in cases involving trauma, disability, or preventable death

• enforce duty of candour and transparency in records

Faye’s story shows why this change is urgently needed.

Her life mattered — and her experience must now protect others.

We ask Parliament, the Department of Health, and the Parliamentary & Health Service Ombudsman to support the introduction of Faye’s Law so that no other family endures the same preventable loss.

Disclaimer:

The statements in this petition reflect the personal experiences, views, and understanding of Faye Cunningham’s family and supporters. They are based on available records and lived experience. The purpose of this petition is to highlight systemic issues and advocate for policy reform in the public interest. It does not allege individual wrongdoing or assign blame to any specific professional or institution.