Susan McLarnon from Belfast underwent vaginal mesh surgery in 2016 to treat prolapse. She entered the hospital able-bodied and left on crutches. The procedure caused excruciating pain that persists. Her mobility declined, affecting tasks such as washing, dressing and driving.

A later operation removed part of the mesh, but pain continued. McLarnon belongs to Sling the Mesh NI, a group with nearly 700 members of affected women. She described herself as one of the lucky ones, noting others lost organs, sold homes or saw relationships end.

Between 1998 and 2018, around 11,000 vaginal mesh implants occurred in Northern Ireland. An audit estimated 5-10% of recipients faced problems. Data collection by local health trusts proved inadequate.

Men received surgical mesh for hernias and also experienced pain, though less likely to discuss it publicly. The Northern Ireland Department of Health stated medical devices remain reserved to Westminster. It cannot advance redress until the UK government responds to recommendations.

Prof Henrietta Hughes suggested initial payments of £20,000 to injured women across the UK. Campaigners requested a funded compensation scheme with a set timeline. The UK Department of Health and Social Care is reviewing the report and plans an update.