Shirley Nunn, 67, was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer in 2021, which had spread to her brain, spine, and pelvis. Despite facing her own heartbreaking prognosis, she was primarily concerned about her son Steven’s future. Steven, who suffered severe brain damage and other disabilities after a traumatic accident at age 11, had relied on Shirley as his full-time carer. He had been unable to live independently due to cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and other complications. Shirley had been his main support system since her husband’s death from cancer.

As Shirley’s health deteriorated, she continued caring for Steven and had plans to die at home with palliative care in place. However, she struggled with depression and the thought of leaving her son behind. Just days after being released from the hospital, Shirley and Steven were found dead at home, two years to the day after her husband’s passing. The Domestic Homicide Review indicated that Shirley’s emotional and psychological needs had been overlooked, despite the clear signs of vulnerability. The investigation suggested that the lack of support and care for Shirley’s mental health contributed to her tragic decision to end both her and Steven’s lives.

The review questioned whether better mental health care for Shirley and more support for carers could have prevented this tragedy. It raised difficult questions about the role of the system in supporting those in Shirley’s position—how much responsibility does society have to ensure that individuals like Shirley, who are caring for loved ones under extreme circumstances, don’t feel they have no other choice but to make such a heartbreaking decision?