Tributes to ‘wonderful’ Farnworth man who died aged just 27

An inquest heard that Conor Hillyard, who lived in Farnworth and had Pallister-Killian syndrome, died at Royal Bolton Hospital on May 12.

A statement from his mother, Lindsay Hillyard, read out at Bolton Coroners’ Court painted a picture of a young man whose warmth and enthusiasm for life touched those around him despite the significant health challenges he faced throughout his life.

Describing her son as having a “wonderful personality”, she said Conor loved music, lights and water, and found happiness in life’s simplest pleasures.

Ms Hillyard said: “He had complex medical needs, but despite that Conor brought great joy to all those around him.”

The court heard that although Conor required extensive care and support, his health had remained stable for many years.

However, Coroner Michael Pemberton said his condition had deteriorated in the years leading up to his death despite the dedication of both his family and medical professionals.

Mr Pemberton told the hearing that Conor had received “excellent care” throughout his life and highlighted the commitment shown by those closest to him and the healthcare professionals that worked alongside his family.

He recorded Mr Hillyard’s cause of death as sepsis and aspiration pneumonia, with contributing factors including Pallister-Killian syndrome and the misplacement of a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tube.

The inquest heard that PEG tube misplacement is a recognised but extremely rare complication and was not something that could reasonably have been foreseen.

Offering his condolences to Mr Hillyard’s loved ones, Mr Pemberton said the young man had left a lasting impression on everyone who met him.

He said: “I wish to express my deepest condolences to members of his family.

“It is very clear to me that Conor, despite his physical ailments and challenges he faced throughout his life, was a beacon of brightness and joy to all who knew him.

“He had an extremely committed family that cared for him and loved him immensely.

“My thoughts will remain with them after today’s hearing.”

The inquest concluded that Conor’s death was the result of natural disease complicated by a rare medical event.

Although his life was cut tragically short, the tributes heard in court made clear the lasting impact he had on those around him, and the love that surrounded him throughout his life.