The birth of a child is a momentous event in the life of any parent. Sadly, for some parents, what should be a joyous and celebratory occasion is instead marred by preventable birth injuries that forever alter the lives of both parent and child.
A mother was recently awarded a $6.5 million dollar settlement after a judge determined that medical providers at a military hospital were negligent in causing a boy’s birth injuries. According to the lawsuit, doctors gave the boy’s mother a medication known as oxytocin to induce labor. While in labor, the lawsuit claims that medical professionals failed to recognize signs that the unborn baby was experiencing distress.
The boy’s mother recalled not hearing her son cry upon his birth and immediately knowing something wasn’t right. Doctors subsequently informed the mother that her child had suffered brain damage and would likely develop cerebral palsy.
Upon further review, the boy’s mother decided to file a medical malpractice lawsuit. In the lawsuit the plaintiff claims she was given too much oxytocin which lead to her unborn child being subjected to stress. As a result of the oxytocin and failure by medical professionals to monitor the unborn baby, the child suffered brain damage which has left him severely disabled.
Today, the injury suffered at birth has left the 5-year-old boy unable to walk, talk or eat on his own. He must rely upon his parents who provide the round-the-clock care he requires. Upon learning of the $6.5 million dollar settlement, the boy’s mother says she feels relieved knowing she now has the financial means to provide for her son’s medical and everyday care.
Illinois families impacted by a birth injury are often left with many questions and few answers. In cases where a baby is born with brain damage or some other sort of debilitating injury, further review is warranted. A medical malpractice lawsuit can often help parents uncover answers related to a child’s birth injury. Additionally, taking legal action may allow parents to recover compensation needed to provide for a child’s care.
Source: Killeen Daily Herald, “Judge: Darnall negligent during birth,” Rose L. Thayer, Dec. 5, 2013
