Scoop  Parliament

11 November 2005

Statement from Nicola Shirlaw in relation to Rod Donald's death

Christchurch pathologist Martin Sage has today released his finding in the cause of Rod Donald's death.

In a letter to Mr Donald's partner Nicola Shirlaw he said in his opinion the cause of death was viral myocarditis.

This condition is not immediately identifiable at autopsy as microscopic examination is required.

Viral myocarditis is an uncommon but well recognised cause of sudden death, he said.

Ms Shirlaw said the letter confirmed that Rod had no pre-existing conditions or other heart or coronary artery disease.

"I am pleased the result has come through so quickly. It ends any speculation."

"Rod's sudden death has been a huge shock to everyone. There is usually no forewarning to this type of death and it is apparent it could not have been anticipated or prevented."

Ms Sirlaw will not be making any further comment in relation to this finding.

ENDS

© Scoop Media

 

Parliament Headlines | Politics Headlines | Regional Headlines

Gordon Campbell: On How National’s ”New” Welfare Plan Resurrects A Past Failure

Sam Uffindell’s defenders keep reminding us that he was only 16 at the time of the King’s College incident, and haven’t we all done things in our teens that, as adults, we look back on with shame and embarrassment? True. Let's be honest. Haven’t we all at one time or another, joined a gang and beaten a smaller, younger kid black and blue with wooden clubs? In that respect, Uffindell’s defenders on the streets of Tauranga risk sounding a bit like the psychiatrist Kargol played by Graham Chapman on Monty Python. Some of the media commentary has also noted how the Uffindell saga has taken the shine off National’s good poll results and distracted us all from the unveiling of an important welfare policy at the recent National Patty conference. OK… So let's put the spotlight back on that welfare policy...
More>>