Misdiagnosed Cancer Patient Receives Compensation

A 68-year-old man, whose entire stomach was removed after he was misdiagnosed with cancer, has accepted a six-figure sum in compensation. The unnecessary operation has left John Ford, from Walsall, who is now 72, in constant discomfort and pain.

 

Doctors diagnosed Mr Ford, a former army guardsman, with cancer on the basis of a pathology report on a stomach biopsy. An operation to remove his stomach was carried out in October 2002 at Walsall Manor Hospital. It was later discovered, however, that the pathologist had made a mistake. The growth was, in fact, a benign tumour which only required monitoring.

 

Mr Ford's quality of life has been severely affected by the operation. He is now only able to eat blended food and suffers continual pain, as well as other digestive problems. Also, because of his body's inability to absorb food, Mr Ford has very low levels of energy and finds it difficult to complete ordinary tasks.

 

Mr Ford's retirement plans have been completely destroyed by the unneeded operation. Because of his condition, it is now very difficult for him to leave his house. The damage caused by the operation was not only physical but also mental, owing to the distress caused by the incorrect diagnosis.

 

Patients who suffer injuries or pain due to incorrect diagnosis or negligent treatment can claim compensation.