A Wayne County jury has awarded $120 million in damages to the family of K’Jon, a 13-year-old boy who suffered severe brain damage due to delayed delivery during birth at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit. The verdict comes after years of investigation and a month-long trial.
Key Takeaways
- K’Jon, now 13, has severe cerebral palsy, is blind, and cannot speak or walk.
- The delay in performing a cesarean section led to K’Jon’s brain damage.
- The jury awarded $120 million in damages to the family.
- Henry Ford Health plans to appeal the verdict.
The Case Background
K’Jon’s mother, who was 19 at the time of his birth, had long suspected that something went wrong during her cesarean section at Henry Ford Hospital. Attorney Brian McKeen, specializing in malpractice and personal injury cases, took on the case. After a two-year investigation, it was found that there was a delay in delivering K’Jon, which led to his severe brain damage.
The Investigation
McKeen’s investigation revealed that the medical staff had the necessary information to perform an immediate C-section. K’Jon’s fetal heart rate pattern was “non-reassuring,” indicating that he was in distress and not receiving adequate oxygen. The delay allowed acidosis to occur, which could have been prevented with timely delivery.
The Verdict
After a month-long trial, the jury agreed with McKeen and K’Jon’s family, concluding that the hospital staff waited too long to deliver him via C-section. The jury awarded $120 million in damages. Henry Ford Health has expressed sadness for the Drake family but plans to appeal the verdict, stating that it is inconsistent with the facts of the case.
Impact on K’Jon’s Life
K’Jon’s grandmother, Kim Drake, has been his primary caregiver. Despite her best efforts, K’Jon’s medical needs are extensive and complicated. He requires constant medical supervision to manage risks such as airway control, shunt infections, and feeding tube difficulties. The awarded damages are expected to help provide the necessary care and improve his quality of life.
Future Steps
A portion of the awarded money will go to reimburse the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, which has supported K’Jon’s medical needs. Attorney McKeen hopes that the hospital will not drag out the appeal process, as the funds are crucial for K’Jon’s ongoing care and well-being.
Family’s Perspective
Kim Drake expressed mixed emotions, feeling both sadness and anger over the situation. She believes that if K’Jon had been delivered in time, he might have had a normal childhood. Despite the challenges, she remains hopeful for K’Jon’s future, emphasizing his beautiful spirit and the importance of the awarded damages in providing him with a better quality of life.