Woman alleges medical providers' negligence caused newborn's brain damage

A Texas woman is alleging her baby was born with severe brain damage because of the lack of treatment and assessment of her medical providers.

Individually and on behalf of Ju'Kaylen Chretian, Brittany Stevens filed suit against Dr. Gene Berry and Christus St. Elizabeth Hospital on Feb. 13 in Jefferson County District Court.

According to the lawsuit, on Feb. 1, 2010, Stevens, 40 weeks pregnant, presented to Christus complaining of pain. She was discharged and returned the following day only to be discharged again.

"She returned the next day and Dr. Berry arrived two hours later. Ju'Kaylen's heart rate steadily decreased over the next several hours," the suit states. "JuKaylen was born septic and with severe brain damage from lack of oxygen."

The suit alleges the defendants were negligent in assessing and treating the plaintiffs during the days before and after labor and delivery.

The plaintiffs are suing for their alleged past and future medical expenses, mental anguish, pain, impairment, disfigurement and lost wages, plus all court costs.

Woodlands attorney Tommy Hastings represents them.

Judge Bob Wortham, 58th District Court, is assigned to the case.

Case No. A191-948