A coroner has heard that a Dorset wellness teacher who developed severe, long-term pain after attending an intensive Buddhist retreat died after concluding she could no longer cope with her condition.
Claire Rodway, 52, had travelled to the Kagyu Samye Ling Monastery on Holy Isle, off Scotland’s west coast, to take part in a year-long spiritual retreat. Evidence presented during the inquest said she had been physically active and in good health before beginning the programme, but left several months later suffering from persistent back pain that went on to transform her daily life.
Demanding retreat involved intensive daily practice
The hearing was told the retreat required participants to complete around 650 prostrations each day, a traditional Buddhist practice involving repeated full-body bows to the ground.
The schedule also reportedly included overnight teachings broadcast from Nepal, disrupting normal sleep patterns because some sessions took place during the early hours of the morning.
After about five months, Ms Rodway left the retreat. In the months that followed, she was diagnosed with fibromyalgia, a long-term condition associated with widespread pain, fatigue and other symptoms. According to the inquest, the illness left her unable to continue volunteering or working and significantly affected her quality of life.
Notes described impact of illness
The court heard that Ms Rodway was found in the River Avon on October 2, 2025. A post-mortem examination concluded that she died by drowning, and police found no evidence of third-party involvement or suspicious circumstances.
Evidence presented to the inquest included notes left for relatives and friends in which she described how her medical condition had “destroyed my life.” The court was told she believed the persistent pain had become impossible to endure.
Background to the case
Before attending the retreat, Ms Rodway had worked as a nurse and later as a wellness practitioner. Family members described her as someone who had lived an active lifestyle before the onset of chronic pain.
Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition that can cause widespread musculoskeletal pain, sleep disturbance and extreme fatigue. While treatments may help manage symptoms, there is currently no cure, and the severity of the condition varies considerably between individuals.
Inquest examines circumstances surrounding death
The inquest focused on the circumstances leading to Ms Rodway’s death and the effect her prolonged illness had on her wellbeing. It heard that the chronic pain and resulting loss of independence had become central factors in her final months.
The proceedings form part of the legal process to establish the facts surrounding her death and the events that preceded it.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or self-harm, support is available. In the UK, the Samaritans can be contacted free of charge by calling 116 123 or through their website. If someone is in immediate danger, call emergency services immediately.
