The Daily Mail has recently reported that Joseph O’Reggio who is now 11 years old, has been awarded £6 million in compensation for his injuries caused by complications at his birth.
Joseph was born at New Cross Hospital in Wolverhampton in April 2001 and was starved of oxygen at birth when the hospital failed to act swiftly enough to deliver him. Unfortunately and as a result, he is unable to speak or feed himself and he has been left with cerebral palsy and learning difficulties.
Joseph’s mother went into labour on 13th April 2001, but the next morning Joseph’s heart rate dropped. Although he was being monitored, it was not until approximately 10pm that specialist help was called for.
Joseph was delivered shortly after 10.45pm but his heart rate was weak and he had suffered brain damage.
It was argued by Joseph’s solicitors that his injuries were caused by medical negligence on part of the staff at the hospital, who they said should have realised he was in distress at an earlier stage.
The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust denied the delays caused the injuries but agreed to compensate Joseph for 80% of the valuation of his claim in the sum of £6 million to be paid in instalments for the rest of his life.
The compensation means that Joseph’s family will be able to move into a new specialised adapted home with him which will give him access to the rehabilitation equipment he needs, including a multi-sensory room and hydrotherapy pool.
Mrs O'Reggio said: “I cannot describe how it feels knowing we finally have justice for Joe.
“It is a mixture of huge relief and happiness that he will now always have access to the treatment he deserves and be cared for the rest of his life.”
By Sarah Fairclough
Comments