AMA president Michelle Atchison ‘shattered’ after daughter Caillin’s sudden death

The head of the Australian Medical Association’s SA branch says she is shattered following the sudden death of her daughter.

The head of the SA branch of the Australian Medical Association says her family is shattered after the sudden death of her daughter.

Dr Michelle Atchison revealed on Thursday that her daughter Caillin, 26, had died overnight.

Caillin just “never woke up” Dr Atchison said in a vulnerable tweet on Thursday evening.

“The light in our life has gone out. My beautiful and only daughter died yesterday,” Dr Atchison said.

“It was so utterly unexpected and my husband and my hearts are shattered,” she said.

The light in our life has gone out. My beautiful and only daughter died yesterday. She never woke up. It was so utterly unexpected and my husband and my hearts are shattered. I really don’t know what to do.

— Michelle Atchison (@michelleatchi15) May 12, 2022

Caillin Atchison with her mother, Michelle and father, Barry. Picture: Facebook

“I really don’t know what to do.”

Hundreds of heartfelt replies have poured in over social media, including one from Health Minister Chris Picton, along with tributes from Caillin’s friends.

“Michelle this is so absolutely awful and shocking. I am devastated for your loss. Sending love to your family at this incredibly difficult time,” he said.

Dr Michelle Atchison pictured in her office in 2020. Picture: Tricia Watkinson

Jo McManus shared her family’s story of grief.

“I don’t know you Michelle but I’m so, so sorry for your loss,” she tweeted.

“We lost our beautiful 20 year old son in 2015 – suddenly, unexpectedly and we still don’t know why. Surround yourself with loving friends and family. And celebrate your gorgeous girl, always.”

Dr Atchison replied with a broken heart emoji.

“I’m so so sorry. It’s awful to share such pain,” she responded.

Andrew McAlindon also opened up with his harrowing experience.

“I’m so sorry to hear that. Our beautiful 32 year old GP Registrar son was taken last year from the side effects of Bleomycin lung poisoning after only two months,” he posted.

“No one can understand what you are going through. Hoping you receive support and love from friends and family.”

The top doctor responded to him: “Thank you Andrew. That is an awful bond to have.”