A family whose son has cerebral palsy was recently awarded a $21 million settlement in a lawsuit they filed against the hospital where he was delivered. Citing hospital negligence, the couple asserted decisions made by the doctors and nurses during the birth of their son directly lead to his birth injury and resulting condition.

The couple, whose son is now 9-years-old, believes the hospital was at fault for their son's birth injury. The couple contends their son's condition resulted from a lack of oxygen to his brain suffered prior to his delivery. They believe the hospital contributed to the injury by acting with negligence in allowing a prolonged vaginal birth rather than performing a Caesarean section.

Babies born with birth injuries caused by the negligent acts of doctors and nurses require long-term care. Often, as a result of their injuries, children who suffered birth injuries need intensive physical therapy and rehabilitation. They may also need long-term care solutions as they age and become adults who are will likely never be able to live independently.

The couple's son is cognitively normal, but is physically unable to use his legs and perform many everyday tasks. His disability will require life-long care and therapy which the settlement amount will help provide.

Families who believe the negligent acts of a doctor or hospital staff contributed to a birth or pregnancy-related injury, should seek legal advice. Compensation awarded in a medical malpractice lawsuit can help provide a much-needed financial solution for long-term care needs.

Source: The Baltimore Sun, "Jury awards Glen Burnie family $21 million in Harbor Hospital medical case," Kevin Rector, July 31, 2012