Determination Triumphs Over Adversity in Case of Young Meningitis Victim

Personal injury lawyers fight to see their clients fairly compensated but perhaps their greatest reward is to witness hope and determination triumphing over adversity. That was certainly so in the case of a brave little girl who showed astonishing resilience in the face of devastating disabilities caused by meningitis.

The girl was only a few months old and meeting all her developmental milestones when she was stricken by the virulent infection. Sepsis developed due to a delay in diagnosing and treating her condition. As a result, she was deprived of limb function and will always be dependent on the care of others.

After a clinical negligence claim was launched on her behalf, the NHS trust that bore responsibility for her care admitted liability in full for her injuries. A final settlement of her claim was negotiated whereby she will receive a lump sum of £14.8 million, together with annual index-linked payments to cover the costs of her care for life. Those payments will start at £80,000 a year, rising in stages to £195,000 a year by the time she reaches her mid-20s.

Approving the settlement, the High Court described the girl as an independent, brave and very determined young lady who, with the unstinting support of her parents, has shown extraordinary fortitude in coming to terms with her disabilities. Praising the hard work and cooperative approach of both sides, the Court noted that the case illustrated all that can be achieved in the face of enormous difficulty.