18-Year-Old Teen Gets Diaphragm Pacing System after Spinal Cord Injury

Spinal cord injury victims have to deal with various degrees of damage to their bodies. Many are paralyzed and unable to walk, and depending on the severity of the injury, some people could even have difficulty breathing on their own.

In January, an 18-year-old suffered a spinal cord injury after he was tackled during a rugby game and broke his neck. Since his nerves were damaged in the accident, he has not been able to control his own breathing and was forced to use a ventilator to help him breathe, but found that it got in the way.

The young man recently underwent surgery to implant a diaphragm pacing system (DPS) that works to stimulate the diaphragm muscle to help with breathing, much like a pacemaker. The 18-year-old already loves the freedom the DPS provides, and even reported that his health has already improved, and his sense of taste returned. He is currently in a rehab center and hopes to be able to go home soon.

Spinal Cord Injury

Individuals who suffer a spinal cord, back, head or traumatic brain injury often face significant physical, emotional and financial hardships. The back and spinal cord lawyers at our practice are committed to helping victims and their families begin the process of moving on with their lives by obtaining substantial financial compensation for their pain and suffering.

With all that this young man had to endure, he may wish to speak with an attorney to determine if he is entitled to compensation for his injury. A lawyer will be able to counsel with him and see if his case warrants a lawsuit in order to collect compensation for his medical bills and pain and suffering. He may also be entitled to compensation for his future medical expenses that he is sure to incur as a result of this injury. 

Contact Our Spinal Cord Injury Lawyers Serving Kenner, Metairie and New Orleans

Individuals who have suffered spinal cord injuries may be entitled to receive financial compensation if another party’s recklessness or negligence is to blame. Contact our firm today at (504) 522-7885 for a free consultation.  Our back and spinal cord injury attorneys are based in New Orleans and serve individuals from Metairie, Kenner and nearby areas.

[Harrell’s Safety Tip: To avoid spinal cord injury while playing sports, always wear recommended safety gear, and avoid leading with your head.]

Harrell & Nowak, L.L.C.Spinal Cord Injury Attorneys