At a Glance
- Louise McKenzie, 38, died Christmas morning hours after visiting doctor
- Son Reece, 18, found her curled up on bathroom floor
- Doctor told her inflamed pancreas was nothing to worry about
- Why it matters: Brain hemorrhage symptoms can appear harmless
A routine Christmas Eve doctor visit ended in tragedy for Louise McKenzie and her teenage son Reece Barrett. The 38-year-old mother received what seemed like routine reassurance about her inflamed pancreas before symptoms escalated rapidly.
The Timeline
Louise visited the doctor with Reece on Christmas Eve. Medical staff diagnosed her with inflamed pancreas but assured them it was nothing concerning. After the appointment, she felt well enough to do last-minute Christmas shopping and tidy their home.
Later that day, Louise began complaining of headache and dizziness. She sat down to rest while Reece went out to celebrate with friends. When he returned home, he found her asleep upstairs and said goodnight, giving her a kiss.
Christmas morning around 11 a.m., Reece discovered his mother curled up on the bathroom floor. He immediately called emergency services and attempted CPR, but paramedics confirmed what he already suspected.
What Happened
Reece Barrett told the local outlet:
> “I think I knew straight away she had passed away. I hoped the paramedics could save her, but I think I already knew she was gone.”
Medical professionals now believe Louise died from a brain hemorrhage. The headache and dizziness she experienced were classic symptoms that went unrecognized at the time.
Aftermath
Reece, who works full-time as a civil servant, faces immediate financial challenges. He’s only ever lived with his mother and now must navigate basic costs alone while maintaining their home and caring for his pitbull Virgil.
Reece’s girlfriend’s mother Vicki Bradshaw established a GoFundMe explaining:
> “The stress of losing your mom, your home and potentially your beloved dog all over the Christmas period has been a terrible time.”
The fundraiser has raised $21,000 toward a $32,000 goal to help Reece secure housing and potentially keep his dog.
Key Takeaways
- Brain hemorrhage symptoms can mimic common ailments
- Medical emergencies can escalate rapidly even after professional reassurance
- Family support systems prove crucial during unexpected loss
- Financial planning becomes essential when sudden death leaves dependents unprepared
Louise’s Christmas pajamas remain upstairs, a stark reminder of how quickly life can change. Reece now faces rebuilding his life while honoring his mother’s memory and the love they shared in their final Christmas together.
