Woman suing HSE for damages says she told doctor: ‘I am going to die’

A woman who had her ovary removed as a protective measure against cancer and later underwent a number of surgeries has sued the HSE for damages over her care.

Karen Lucey (49) ended up with excruciating pain, had to go back to hospital on several occasions and had further surgeries as a result of pain, the High Court was told.

Ms Lucey had an ovary removed during a procedure at Cork University Hospital on November 30th, 2011, the court heard.

She was admitted to Kerry General Hospital, on December 18th, 2011, with severe spasmodic abdominal pain.

It is claimed she endured numerous admissions to Kerry General Hospital where, it is alleged, she was caused to undergo a number of unnecessary invasive surgical procedures. On one occasion at Kerry General Hospital, she was sent home, suggesting there was nothing wrong with her, it is alleged.

Liability

Ms Lucey, a special-needs assistant, of Allmans Terrace, Killarney, Co Kerry, brought her action against the HSE.

Mr Justice Bernard Barton was told liability was admitted and the matter was before the court for assessment of damages only. Dr John O’Mahony SC, for Ms Lucey, asked the judge to note liability was admitted on the morning of the hearing.

In her action, Ms Lucey alleges failure to suspect or diagnose she had suffered damage. She also alleges failure to exercise the required degree of care, skill, competence, diligence and judgment during her diagnosis, management, treatment, care and surgery.

In evidence, Ms Lucey told the court she was in agony at Kerry General Hospital and thought she was going to die.

She said she had told a doctor: “If something is not done, I am going to die.”

Dr O’Mahony said Ms Lucey’ mother died of cancer aged 36 and she herself had previously had breast cancer.

After the ovary operation, Ms Lucey’s life was turned upside-down and she had multiple operations and suffered intractable pain, he said. Her abdomen was opened twice unnecessarily and her appendix removed unnecessarily, he said. “Her life was a nightmare. She has had a dreadful time,” Dr O’Mahony said.

The case continues.