Cancer Patient, 23, Who Raised Over $400,000 for Charity, Dies After Catching Infection in the Hospital: Report

A 23-year-old cancer patient, Molly Cuddihy, tragically passed away on August 26 after battling an infection she reportedly contracted while seeking treatment at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital (QEUH) in Glasgow. Her death has sparked concerns about safety within the hospital walls, as Cuddihy’s case is not the first instance of patients developing infections during their stays.

Cuddihy had a history of infections, having previously suffered septic shock in 2018 from a potentially hospital-acquired infection during her cancer treatment. In 2019, she faced another infection while hospitalized. This pattern raised red flags when she was admitted again in July 2025 and later succumbed to yet another infection. Following her death, an investigation has been launched to probe potential safety lapses at the hospital.

The NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) expressed their condolences to Cuddihy’s family during this trying time but refrained from providing further details citing patient confidentiality. The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service in Scotland has also acknowledged the report on Cuddihy’s death and assured a thorough examination of the circumstances surrounding her passing.

Due to her previous medical issues and ongoing chemotherapy, Cuddihy’s health was already frail before contracting the fatal infection. Despite undergoing a kidney transplant and grappling with irreparable liver damage, she remained resilient. Diagnosed with metastatic Ewing sarcoma at just 15 years old, Cuddihy faced numerous challenges throughout her battle with cancer.

During her treatment at RHC and QEUH, Cuddihy encountered setbacks like mycobacterium chelonae, a bacterial infection linked to medical procedures. Her courage and determination were evident as she bravely shared her story at the Scottish Hospitals Inquiry in 2021, shedding light on the hospital’s safety concerns and tragedies that had occurred.

Despite her own health struggles, Cuddihy continued to advocate for other cancer patients, raising over $400,000 alongside a friend to enhance facilities at the Royal Hospital for Children. Her selfless actions and unwavering spirit touched the lives of many, as she dedicated herself to making a difference in the midst of her own battle.

In the wake of Cuddihy’s passing, tributes poured in from her family, colleagues, and the Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, where she served as a young ambassador. Her legacy of kindness, love, and resilience lives on in the hearts of those who knew her, with her family describing her as a beacon of light who will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

The healthcare system continues to grapple with ensuring patient safety, especially for vulnerable individuals like Cuddihy, whose story highlights the importance of robust infection control measures and vigilant oversight in medical facilities. As investigations unfold, the hope is that lessons can be learned to prevent similar tragedies in the future and honour the memory of courageous fighters like Molly Cuddihy.