CEREBRAL PALSY NEWS
.......................................................................................
"Missouri Doctor Accused of Causing Baby’s CP"
January 7 , 2009
A Missouri mother has filed a lawsuit against a doctor practicing at Memorial Hospital, St. Louis University based on allegations that her daughter’s cerebral palsy was caused by the doctor’s negligence.
Claims of Negligence during Daughter’s Treatment
Linda Overmeyer’s daughter, Haley, was born in January of 2005 at Memorial Hospital where she was treated at birth by Dr. William Keenan. Overmeyer alleges that Dr. Keenan’s negligence during his treatment of Haley resulted in:
• An improper resuscitation of Haley by improperly intubating her
• Insufficiently monitored Haley after the resuscitation
What is Intubation?
Tracheal intubation is the placement of a flexible plastic tube into the trachea to protect the patient's airway and provide a means for assisted breathing. If performed improperly, the resulting lack of oxygen to the brain can result in severe and sometimes permanent neurological damage.
Doctor Negligence Causes Child’s Cerebral Palsy
The suit claims that because of this negligence, Haley now suffers from a number of health issues and lifelong challenges, including:
• Cerebral palsy
• Neurological defects
• Developmental delays
• Hearing and visual problems
• Great physical and mental anguish
• Physiological consequences
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of sleep
• Loss of life's pleasures and enjoyments
Mother Faces Financial Hardship
In addition to these issues, Overmeyer insists that Dr. Keenan’s negligence has placed an overwhelming financial burden on her due to the cost of the many medical bills she’s had to pay.
Overmeyer is seeking $200,000 in damages plus expenses. Joseph Hillebrand of Kassly, Bone, English and Hillebrand in Belleville, C.J. Moeller and Bradley L. Bradshaw of Brad Bradshaw in Springfield and Eric M. Belk of Springfield will be representing Linda.
(Source: The Madison St. Clair Record)
Do you have a family member living with cerebral palsy? If so, contact us for more information and resources regarding your legal rights.
