Success Stories

$4.5 million dollar recovery for minor child against hospital, Orange County, Florida

Baby Doe was born prematurely. She was a healthy baby with the exception of a potentially dangerous eye condition which required follow-up care with an eye specialist. The doctor and hospital discharged Baby Doe from the hospital without telling her parents of this potential danger or providing assistance in seeking the appropriate medical care. Baby Doe's parents followed up with the doctor, but she developed the eye condition because of a lapse in treatment.

As any parent would attempt to do, Baby Doe's parents sought care and treatment from the best experts in the field of ophthalmology. The specialists made valiant attempts at restoring Baby Doe's vision through three surgeries. All attempts failed and Baby Doe suffered a significant and permanent loss of vision. The parents incurred over $50,000 in medical expenses from these failed attempts.

Baby Doe is now receiving special assistance to learn what those of us with sight take for granted. Her needs will decrease over the years, but she will always need some level of special assistance.

Through vigorous prosecution of the case, attorney, Jim Cunningham, was able to establish that the neglect of the hospital resulted in Baby Doe's loss of vision. Leading ophthalmology and retina experts were retained to present the case as well as a vocational rehabilitation expert and economist. Although the hospital denied fault, Mr. Cunningham was able to achieve a confidential settlement at mediation for $4.5 million. The bulk of the proceeds are in a trust to provide for Baby Doe's needs throughout her life.