You might recognize me. You may have seen me on television or read one of my articles dealing with issues involving medical malpractice during pregnancy or birth. However, I dont want to know you, because that would mean you are in need of my services. I represent families who are caring for a child who suffers from cerebral palsy.
Let me give you some background information about me. I have practiced law for over two decades. I have racked up some impressive numbers, including a compensation award in a
General personal injury case that topped $12 million. That was a good day. I had established myself as a performer in my field and I was well compensated for my successes. I even made partner at the law firm in record time. But despite all of victories in the courtroom, something was missing.
My daughter, Amy, was born six years ago. Amy is what changed everything for me. I suffered complications during my pregnancy and my Obstetrician misdiagnosed the issue. As a result, we nearly lost Amy during the delivery and my life was in danger as well. Amy survived, but suffered brain damage resulting in cerebral palsy. We were fortunate in a way, since her case was mild enough that she is now able to lead a relatively normal life, but there were and are still substantial medical bills to deal with as well as expensive equipment like wheelchairs, educational assistants and therapists, not to mention customization to our home. The first two years of her life were so traumatic that I can hardly recall all the surgeries and medical appointments she endured. It upended our life as well. These things happen, even at the best of times, and I can accept that. What I dont intend to do, however, is to allow something like this to happen needlessly, because of a preventable mistake.
There are anywhere from 4,500 to 10,000 new cerebral palsy cases diagnosed every year in this country and many of these were preventable. Most parents arent as financially secure as my husband and I, so Ive made it my mission to take on these cases in the hope that I can help other families cope and force the medical community to focus on prevention.
