The family of a cherished British father who passed away in Turkey has accused doctors of coercion, alleging that they insisted on receiving a kidney donation to sustain his life. John Kearney, aged 64, had traveled to Marmaris for a vacation with friends in September. Unfortunately, he sustained a severe head injury after falling from a rented scooter on his way back to the hotel. He succumbed to his injuries in a Turkish hospital nearly two weeks after the incident.
Following the accident, the family was informed to urgently fly to Turkey as medical staff planned to disconnect John’s life support. His daughter, Joanna Kearney, claimed that when she requested more time for the family to gather and bid farewells, the doctors made an appalling request. The family consented to the organ donation, but Joanna received a WhatsApp message from a physician stating that the kidney was not a match. She was abruptly asked, “Do you want to see your dad one last time?”
“I was told that if I agreed to donate my dad’s organ, they would prolong his life on the support machine,” Joanne expressed in an interview. “I felt coerced into agreeing to the organ donation due to the urgency and pressure. Finally, I agreed to provide a kidney as there are two available.”
In a touching social media tribute, Joanna mourned her father’s passing, highlighting his impact on friends and loved ones. She expressed deep sorrow and the overwhelming support from family and friends during this difficult time. Before the tragic turn of events, John’s friend had notified the family about the decision to switch off the life support machine, prompting their immediate arrival to bid farewell.
Joanna revealed the challenges faced upon arriving at the hospital in Turkey, narrating the restrictions on visitation and the updates provided by medical staff regarding John’s condition. She also noted her surprise at the absence of helmets on rental scooters in the resort where her father had the accident.
A fundraising page has been established to support the family during this trying period. Contributions can be made to the fundraiser linked here.