Genealogy Chat

Hi Have received a death cert - where the cause of death is hard to read - partly due to old style handwriting and party due to the entry being a photocopy. My ancestor, possibly died during or shortly after childbirth aged 39. The entry for the cause of death looks like it might mention the uterus and bladder. Any help appreciated. Regards Liz

If it will scan/photocopy at all clearly you are welcome to e-mail or snail mail me and I will have a go - not too bad at reading old writing!! Otherwise, put on here the letters and spaces that you can identify and I'll have a look in my 'old causes of death' pamphlet. Maz. XX

hi maz , noticed your reply and wondered if i can be cheeky and ask if you could look up something for me, cause of death:bulbar paralysis syncope! karen

No prob Karen. Bulbar palsy = paralysis caused by disease in specific parts of the brain that causes difficulty with speech, swallowing and tongue movements. Syncope = sudden loss of consciousness, as in a faint. Sounds like swelling in the mouth causing airway blockage and fainting. How long ago was it?? I think it sounds similar to anaphylactic shock from allergic reactions. I'm not a nurse or doc though!! Just that in 'the old days' determining cause of death was not quite the exact science it is now - tended to be more about symptons than cause I believe. Hope this helps anyway. Maz. XX

Hi Maz Would you mind if I snail mailed you a copy (dont have scanner at moment)- your offer is very much appreciated. When I get home - might try your suggestion and put in letters I can make out. Thanks Liz

maz, thanks,the death was in 1910 and he was my mums g grandad.legend has it that he was working on a man made lake laying tarmac or something similar and that he fell onto the hot substance and died sometime after. karen