Janet Garner’s routine spleen removal surgery was completed without incident. After recovery, she left the hospital relieved, thinking that her medical woes had been taken care of. Years later, however, an infection developed which would change Janet’s life forever.
One day, Janet noticed lacerations on her hands and feet, which began to spread all over her limbs. As it turns out, she had contracted an infection that was destroying her arms and legs. After rushing to the hospital for treatment, it was revealed that she was supposed to have received a vaccine within 5 years of her spleen removal. The doctors who performed the initial surgery failed to notify her of this critical aspect of post-operative care.
What followed were years of agony that lead to numerous operations and amputated fingers, toes, and feet.
“Every step is painful. It feels like walking on sharp rocks,” she said. “It’s really hard. I feel helpless and useless.”
Because of California’s outdated cap that limits compensation for victims of medical negligence, Janet’s years of suffering and heartache entitled her to only $250,000.
