Brooklyn Woman Awarded $62 Million After Losing Legs In Botched Procedure

Stacey Galette was 34 years old when she went to Winthrop University Hospital for the laparoscopic removal of an ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that occurs outside the womb).  As a result of medical malpractice during the surgery Galette lost both of her legs and most of her hearing.

The doctors who performed the surgery were accused of puncturing Galette’s intestines during what was normally a routine procedure.  Under normal circumstances, she would have been in and out of the hospital in one day.  However as a result of the malpractice, an infection was triggered, leading to blood poisoning and gangrene.  She was discharged three days later in severe pain.  The next day her stomach started to swell.  Galette returned three days later and doctors amputated both of her lower legs.

As a result of the double amputation, she now needs to use a wheelchair and has been fitted with two prosthetic legs.  She is walking with the use of the prosthetic legs but it is very difficult and painful.  She is unable to work and is now on “total disability.”  It is also very difficult to care for her daughter.  Since the botched surgery Galette has spent countless days in the hospital and in physical therapy.

After deliberating for three days the jury awarded Galette a total of $62 million consisting of $20 million for past pain and suffering, $38 million for future pain and suffering, and $4 million for the interest on her medical expenses.  According to one juror “mistakes had been made” and the “main issue” was determining who was “responsible and how much money do you put on the loss of enjoyment of life, on the loss of a limb.”  Another juror said that while the decision was hard she was well deserving of the amount they awarded to her.

After the jury came back with the award, one hospital representative said that they would appeal both the ruling and the amount of damages.

Medical malpractice can result in severe injury to patients that can impact them for the rest of their lives.  If you or a loved one has been the victim of medical malpractice, contact an experienced Kingston, New York attorney as soon as possible to evaluate your case.

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