A UK coroner’s court has heard the harrowing tale of how a pensioner suffering from dementia died after accidentally making coffee with stain remover.
83-year-old John Guttridge was trying to “help” his wife, Anne, 79, with household chores, when he mistakenly made them two cups of coffee using Vanish Gold Oxi Action instead of the instant coffee.
After taking a sip, Anne immediately tasted the chemicals and called an ambulance for both herself and John, which took them to University Hospital of North Tees in Stockton.
Tragically, John passed away the following day from chemical gastritis.
Anne was able to make a full recovery.
A distraught Anne told the hearing that the experience was “dreadful”.
“He was just trying to help,” said Anne, “Usually I made the coffee.”
Senior coroner, Claire Bailey, commented on the case, stating, “I am satisfied Mr Guttridge intended to make the drink, however he obviously didn’t intend the outcome.”
