Appellate Court Upholds Clifford Law's $4.5 Million Verdict for Blinded Nurse

An Illinois appellate court upheld a $4.5 jury award for an Aurora woman for the loss of her eyesight after an opthamologist and Michael Reese Hospital failed to properly diagnose and treat her diabetic eye disease.

The 1997 verdict is believed to be a record in Cook County for loss of eyesight in one eye.

Keith A. Hebeisen, partner at Clifford Law Offices and who concentrates in plaintiffs' medical negligence litigation, represented 43-year-old Deborah Surlas, a clinical nurse auditor. She lost the sight in her left eye and has compromised vision in her right eye as a result of the negligence of Dr. Daniel McLachlan and Michael Reese Hospital Foundation.

"The jury saw the tragedy this young woman must endure for the rest of her life as a result of the negligence of this doctor and hospital and the appellate court obviously agreed with that finding," Hebeisen said.

Justice Alan Greiman on behalf of a three-judge appellate panel ruled that the verdict was fair. "Having thoroughly examined the record and considered the allegations of error, we not only find that there was no error, but also, believe that the trial in the present case was eminently fair and have no reason to invade the jury's verdict," the court wrote.

At the time of trial, Surlas, unable to work, could not see anything in the courtroom.

Last week (Jan. 6), the trial court entered a satisfaction of judgment whereby the parties agreed to settle the matter for $2.8 million in lieu of any further appeal.

Hebeisen has been an attorney for 16 years and has been recognized for his consistently garnering record verdicts, particularly in the area of medical negligence.

Clifford Law Offices, Chicago, concentrates in medical negligence, aviation, product liability, personal injury and wrongful death law.

Surlas v. Michael Reese Hospital Foundation et. al., 1-98-2324.