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Young Woodbridge woman to sue for birth injuries |
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19 March 2008 |
A young Woodbridge woman who suffered a brain injury at birth 21 years ago is to sue the hospital where she was born, claiming that her injuries were caused by doctors' negligence.
Jessica Marjoram was born in Ipswich hospital in December 1986 after her mother Cathy had a normal pregnancy.
A young Woodbridge woman who suffered a brain injury at birth 21 years ago is to sue the hospital where she was born, claiming that her injuries were caused by doctors' negligence.
Jessica Marjoram was born in Ipswich hospital in December 1986 after her mother Cathy had a normal pregnancy. Jessica was her first child.
During the delivery doctors decided to use forceps to assist, but as they did so Jessica's heart rate fell, showing she was being starved of oxygen. It was only after another attempt with forceps that doctors proceeded to a caesarean section. It is alleged that it was during this crucial delay that Jessica's injuries occurred.
After her birth Jessica needed resuscitation and had a number of fits. She now suffers from cerebral palsy, which affects her speech and all her limbs and means that she needs help to do everyday tasks.
The Marjoram family's lawyer is Sandra Patton of Kester Cunningham John, a specialist in dealing with claims arising from birth injuries.
'We claim that Jessica's physical problems have been caused by a lack of oxygen to her brain that happened immediately before her delivery,' she explains.
'Had the hospital not used forceps or had been able to convert to a caesarean more quickly, Jessica wouldn't have suffered the injury.
'We are issuing the claim against Ipswich hospital this week, but it will be some time before the case comes before the courts. We shall be looking for a settlement which will mean that Jessica can live as independent and fulfilled a life as possible.
'Jessica and her family approached me only recently and for the same reason as many other families in this situation.
'As the child grows, the effects and reality of their disability become more stark. So their parents worry what will happen when they are no longer able to care for them, and they recognize that there is a pressing need to do something to try and secure their child's future.'
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