Family claims hospice worker abused mother

The administratrix of the estate of a deceased woman says the woman died at the hands of a Harbor Hospice nurse who allegedly abused her and caused her more than 50 skin tears.

Carolyn Guillory claims Willie Lorene Williams was living at defendant Clairmont Beaumont and began receiving care from co-defendant Harbor Hospice on Aug. 1, 2007, after she was diagnosed with brain cancer.

"On or about Nov. 23, 2007, Ms. Williams' children were notified that she had 'some places on her arm;' however, shortly after the initial contact, another phone call was made wherein the family was informed that 'the lady from Harbor Hospice has hurt your mother,'" the suit filed Aug. 12 in Jefferson County District Court states.

According to the complaint, Williams' skin had numerous tears, and Clairmont nurses discovered the woman, her dress, sheets, covers and pillow covered in blood.

A few days later, Williams was transferred to Christus Hospital St. Elizabeth, where an exam revealed she had more than 50 skin tears, the complaint says.

Seventeen days after the initial incident, Williams died, the suit states.

Guillory blames the wounds in part on the fact that only one person who was incompetent bathed and helped Williams dress when she required at least two helpers.

"When Harbor Hospice's Kawana Fair began 'caring' for Ms. Williams, Ms. Williams began receiving skin tears," the complaint says. "Ms. Williams was well aware of what was going on. In fact, Ms. Williams indicated to her family members that she begged the lady to stop."
Guillory also says Williams was abused.

Guillory claims Clairmont Beaumont and Harbor Hospice failed to protect Williams because they did not report "obvious abuse."

"As a result of the Defendant's failure, Ms. Williams' body was torn to pieces, she lived in fear for the next 17 days of her life and lost her will to live," the complaint says.

Because of the abuse, Williams suffered physical pain, mental anguish, emotional pain, disfigurement, impairment and torment before her death, the suit states.

Guillory is seeking punitive and exemplary damages, plus interest, costs and other relief to which she is entitled.

Rocky M. Lawdermilk and Jessica L. Hallmark of the Law Office of Rocky Lawdermilk in Beaumont will be representing her.

The case has been assigned to Judge Milton Shuffield, 136th District Court.

Jefferson County District Court case number: D184-650.