The girl who never ate: British woman who didn’t eat until age 10 dies at 26

Tia-Mae McCarthy, whose early life captivated the UK in the 2006 documentary “The Girl Who Never Ate”, has died unexpectedly at the age of 26. She was born 12 weeks premature with a rare condition called oesophageal atresia, where the oesophagus doesn’t connect to the stomach.

She underwent surgery at just three months old. Her stomach was repositioned into her chest so she could survive. While the surgery was considered successful, her recovery puzzled doctors and specialists, as despite no apparent medical reason, Tia-Mae refused to eat for the first decade of her life.

“She had to be fed through a tube while she slept,” her mother, Sue McCarthy, explained in the documentary. For years, Sue searched desperately for answers, visiting doctors across the country. Yet no expert could fully explain why her daughter wouldn’t eat. "Her case baffled experts."

Her story touched hearts across the UK, turning her into a symbol of medical mystery and maternal devotion. Eventually, by age 15, Tia-Mae began eating normally, adding foods like salmon, venison, and scallops to her diet.

Tia-Mae grew into a joyful young woman despite early adversity. She lived with some developmental disabilities, which meant she couldn't live independently or work, but her life was full.

She had a love for horse riding and a passion for arts and crafts, her younger brother Fin, 22, told the Daily Mail.

“She had a bit of a cough, but was otherwise well,” he said. “Her mindset was a lot younger than her physical age, so she couldn’t live independently or have a job, but she had a very full life. She loved horse riding, and she was really into her arts and crafts.”

The news of her death came as a "real shock" to her family and friends. A fundraising page has been set up to support the family during this difficult time.

FAQs

Can a person survive without eating for many years?

Yes, but only with medical intervention. In Tia-Mae’s case, she was fed through a tube at night, which provided the essential nutrients her body needed. Tube feeding is a common method used for patients who cannot eat by mouth for medical or behavioral reasons.

What psychological effects can early medical trauma have on children?

Children who undergo early surgeries or experience long-term hospital care may develop anxiety, PTSD, or developmental delays. These can manifest in behavioral challenges like food refusal or social difficulties, often requiring long-term therapy and support.