Sheppard Law Firm - December 2024

ANYONE SEEN A SKULL?

Hospital Misplaces Patient’s Body Part

All of us have had to search underneath the couch cushions for a missing wallet or TV remote, or we’ve had to scour the mall parking lot in search of our somehow misplaced car keys. I would almost certainly lose my head if it were not attached to my body. Which, as it turns out, is why I definitely should not work at one

While the hospital scheduled the procedure to repair Fernando’s skull for November 2022, issues arose that made it impossible for the hospital to fulfill its end of the bargain. The hospital made errors when identifying the bone flaps and had no idea which skull fragments belonged to Fernando. Eventually, hospital staff informed the patient they could not find his bone flap and, as a result, they would be unable to put the missing pieces back in his skull. Suing Over a Skull

particular Atlanta hospital. In September 2022, the Emory University Hospital Midtown staff allegedly misplaced something more important than the contents of a patient’s pants pocket. Following his brain surgery, Fernando Cluster was horrified to discover that the hospital had misplaced part of his skull . What a Headache Fernando underwent emergency brain surgery after suffering a stroke and subsequent cranial bleeding. As part of the surgery, surgeons removed a portion of Fernando’s skull, known as a bone flap, with plans to reattach that portion of his skull after he healed from his surgery.

Consequently, Fernando and Melinda Cluster have filed a civil lawsuit against the hospital. The Clusters claim the hospital’s failure to find his bone flap led to an extended hospital stay, increased medical debt, and undue pain and suffering. Not to mention, of course, the alleged negligence in misplacing a patient’s skull . If nothing else, the Clusters have a remarkable story to tell and, most probably, a large settlement headed their way instead of a fully functional brain cage.

r e e D a y s S e a s o

As merry as the holidays often are, the holidays can still negatively affect our mental wellness. Here are a few thoughts to consider if times get tough amid the mistletoe. Nobody’s Perfect — And That’s Okay If you’re typically the member of your household who handles all your family’s holiday festivities, you likely stress over all the details more than anyone else. Well, it’s time to give yourself a break, as few things in life go according to plan. If you prep everything to the last detail, you could feel frazzled if an out-of-state guest’s flight is delayed or an unexpected weather event prevents your loved ones from stopping by. Sometimes, the best thing we can do for ourselves during stressful times is to accept things as they are. After all, this world has more significant catastrophes than a missed plane or a spilled plate of cranberry sauce. 2 floridaestateplanning.com

Sources of Serenity It’s no secret we’re living in highly divisive times. This holiday season, it’s likely that you will share a meal with someone who does not share your outlook or opinions. Instead of allowing these sensitive moments to wreak havoc on your peace of mind (and perhaps your digestive system),

develop a self-care plan before welcoming guests who, no matter how much you love them, will inevitably find a way to get on your nerves. Sometimes, a short walk around the neighborhood — or maybe a quick call to a supportive friend — is all it takes to clear your thoughts and keep your emotions in check. New Bonds, New Beginnings If you tend to feel lonely, sad, or isolated this time of year, consider devoting time and energy toward community activities that help the less fortunate. In addition to potentially meeting new people who care about giving to others, you’ll be in a positive environment that may remind you of the true spirit of the holidays. Even if the spot under your tree is short on presents, you can still work with a volunteer organization to give someone the gift of a warm coat, a full meal, and — perhaps best of all — your company.

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