Chicago Hospital Faces $23 Million Verdict In Negligence Birth Injury Lawsuit

In a landmark decision on May 1, 2024, a Cook County jury awarded $23,070,000 to seven-year-old Na’ Jai Johnson, who suffers from brain damage and cerebral palsy due to medical negligence at Advocate Trinity Hospital in Chicago. The unanimous verdict against a nurse and two obstetricians highlighted their failure to perform a timely cesarean section during Na’Jai’s birth in January 2017. This substantial award is earmarked primarily for Na’Jai’s lifelong medical care and treatment.

Na’Jai’s mother, Alexis Willis, sought medical attention at Advocate Trinity Hospital due to decreased fetal movement. Despite clear signs of distress, the medical team delayed the cesarean delivery. Tragically, Na’Jai experienced a significant drop in heart rate approximately 25 minutes before her birth, leading to hypoxic-ischemic brain damage. Testimonies revealed that had the medical team acted sooner, Na’Jai’s injuries could have been prevented.

Mary M. Koch of Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch, and Norman expressed the family's gratitude for the jury's dedication and the justice served for Na’Jai’s birth injury. Dave Grzechowiak echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the verdict as a triumph for Na’Jai and families affected by birth injuries.

The legal representation for Na’Jai included Mary Koch and Dave Grzechowiak, alongside John LaMantia, Soobin Lee, and Joseph Konrad of Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman, LLC. The defense was represented by Dominic Saviaino and Betsy Grover of Nielsen, Zehe & Antas, PC.

This case underscores the critical importance of timely medical intervention during childbirth and serves as a cautionary tale for healthcare providers. The jury’s decision not only provides for Na’Jai’s future care but also sends a powerful message about accountability in medical practice.