Shirl Lee Sweeny, a 50-year-old woman from South Carolina, is facing charges for allowing a 17-year-old diabetic girl in her care to drink a milkshake, which ultimately led to the girl’s death. The teen had been diagnosed with diabetes in June 2021 but failed to attend follow-up appointments even though medical staff had advised Sweeny that the girl needed her insulin. Sweeny, who was responsible for the teen’s welfare, did not take her to medical appointments for over a year and neglected to administer her insulin as required.
In September 2021, the teenager was hospitalized with high blood pressure. Despite being informed that it was crucial for the girl to take her insulin, Sweeny did not ensure that this was done. On August 12, 2022, the teen began vomiting, a symptom of diabetic ketoacidosis, but was not taken to the hospital. The following day, Sweeny called 911, reporting that the girl had been found on the bathroom floor. It was reported that Sweeny said, “I knew she shouldn’t have had that milkshake,” indicating awareness of the risk she had taken by allowing the girl to consume it. The teen was taken to the hospital with excessive weight loss and high blood glucose levels and later passed away.
The cause of death was determined to be hyperosmolar ketoacidosis due to diabetes and was classified as a homicide. Sweeny was charged in connection with the teen’s death as she had placed her at an unreasonable risk of harm that ultimately impacted her life, physical health, and safety. This tragic incident highlights the serious consequences of neglecting the care of a diabetic individual, particularly in terms of administering necessary medications and monitoring their diet and health closely.
The case has prompted questions about the level of responsibility and care that caregivers must provide to individuals with chronic health conditions like diabetes. It serves as a reminder of the importance of adherence to medical advice and treatment plans, particularly when dealing with life-threatening conditions. Sweeny’s actions, or lack thereof, have had devastating consequences, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and education surrounding the management of diabetes and other chronic illnesses.
The legal proceedings will likely shed light on the circumstances surrounding the teen’s death and the extent of Sweeny’s negligence in failing to provide proper care for the girl. The case may also serve as a cautionary tale for other caregivers and individuals tasked with the care of those with chronic conditions, urging them to prioritize the well-being and health of those under their supervision. It is essential to recognize the severity of neglecting medical advice and treatment regimens, as demonstrated by the tragic outcome of this situation.
