'Our lives are shattered' - say family of Limerick woman who died after home birth

A YOUNG family has been left “haunted” with their “lives shattered” after a woman died after giving birth at home, an inquest heard this morning. 

Laura Liston gave birth to her son on June 4, 2022 at her home in Croom with two midwives present and tragically passed away in the early hours of June 5 at University Hospital Limerick after her placenta failed to detach and deliver. 

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The inquest into her death in Limerick Coroner’s Court in Kilmallock Courthouse started this morning, January 14, 2026. 

Ms Liston’s husband Fergal Mannion broke down giving his evidence and the remainder was read out by his solicitor Scarlett O’Sullivan.  

He described how his late wife was “amazing and a wonderful partner.”

The HSE apologised to the family for their “failings in her care.”

The apology read out in court acknowledged “harm caused” and how learnings and improvements have been made, but they know this won't bring the family any comfort. 

The apology said they couldn't “comprehend the depth of grief” and that Ms Liston's life and that of her husband and infant son, should have been filled with joy and hope. 

Mr Mannion told the inquest that it was “love at first sight” when they first met almost 20 years ago. 

They were married in December 2019 and planned to build a home and start a family. 

After unsuccessfully trying to conceive a baby, they were successful with an IVF pregnancy.  

“It was all she ever wanted to be - a mother,” her husband said. 

“We were looking to our future and everything was coming together.”

His evidence outlined that even though they were told about an issue with his wife's placenta, they were approved for a home birth. 

As labour started and they were in contact by phone with a midwife, Mr Mannion said: “We were so excited.”

Midwife Sandra Healy attended and set up a birthing pool and her equipment, after visiting earlier in the day. 

After their son was born safe and well, he said his wife stood up, fainted and dropped the baby into the birthing pool. 

When the midwife tried to deliver the placenta manually, he said his wife was in agony and was pleading for help. 

Two ambulances were called, one for Ms Liston and another for Mr Mannion and their newborn. 

“I wish I could have been by her side, but it was an impossible situation.

“I'm haunted by what happened that night. 

“Our lives are shattered and will never be the same again.”

The inquest continues this afternoon.