In a somber resolution to a long-standing dispute, the family of a Co. Cork woman who died following a routine heart angiogram test has secured a €420,000 settlement from the High Court.

Aileen Halligan’s Passing

Aileen Halligan, a 69-year-old mother of three and grandmother to four, passed away on May 31st, 2017, at the Mater Private Hospital in Mahon, Co. Cork. Halligan had initially gone to the hospital for a heart angiogram, a procedure used to examine blood vessels.

However, during the visit, she also underwent an angioplasty, which includes inserting a stent to clear blocked arteries. It was during this unblocking procedure that the family alleges a stent became misplaced, leading to thrombosis and subsequently heart failure.

The Halligan Family’s Legal Battle

Represented by solicitor Dr. John O’Mahony SC and Cian O’Mahony BL, Halligan’s children, Aoife Halligan Brown, Shane, and Niall, filed a lawsuit against consultant interventional cardiologist Abid Hussaini. The family’s case also involved accusations that Halligan’s husband James, a co-plaintiff, passed away in 2021, making the Halligan children the sole representatives in the lawsuit.

The lawyers alleged that the stenting procedure was mishandled, and that medical staff failed to adequately warn Halligan about the risks of such procedures. The team claimed that the hospital did not exercise the care, diligence, judgment, and skill expected of a medical professional.

The eight-year legal battle has finally reached a settlement without the hospital admitting any wrongdoing. The family was pleased to receive compensation but acknowledged that no amount could truly compensate for their loss.

Chaos in the Hospital

Halligan’s daughter, Aoife Halligan Brown, recounted her family’s experience of that day. They were informed of the medical emergency while waiting in a family room. The sight of medical professionals with bloody shoes and scrubs left her shaken, and she detailed how chaotic the situation was.

Brown stated, “If we knew about the risks and complications we would have not said that morning ‘see you later.’ We would have dealt with things differently. The doctors had a disapproving demeanor that added to the unintelligible explanations about what was going on.”

The Court’s Response

In his judgment, Mr. Justice Paul Coffey expressed his deepest sympathy to the Halligan family. He approved the settlement and the division of the statutory mental distress payment of €35,000 among the family members.

Outside the court, Aoife Halligan Brown acknowledged the settlement but stressed the deep emotional toll of their loss. “Monetary compensation is technically little or no compensation for the dreadful loss we have suffered. Our mum should be with us today,” she stated.

Challenges and Reflections

The Halligan case highlights the critical need for clear communication and informed consent in medical procedures. Families must be fully aware of risks and potential complications associated with medical treatments to make an informed decision. The trauma of losing a loved one, under circumstances they alleges should have been preventable, underscores the importance of transparency and trust between patients and medical professionals.

For the Halligan family, the High Court settlement brings closure to their legal struggle but not to the lingering pain of losing Aileen. The experience has undoubtedly reshaped the family’s perspective on healthcare and the importance of being proactive and discerning about medical choices.

Final Thoughts

This high-profile case serves as a poignant reminder of the complexities and potential risks involved in medical procedures. The Halligan family’s predicament spotlights the critical importance of patient rights and the expectation of meticulous care from medical professionals.

As the community reflects on this tragic event and its resolution, the family’s ordeal echoes a broader plea for greater transparency, honesty, and accountability in hospitals across Ireland.

The legal battle brought much-needed attention to the complexities and potential risks associated with medical procedures, spotlighting the critical importance of patient rights. The Halligan family’s heartbreak serves as an enduring testament to the need for proactive and informed medical decision-making.

While the financial compensation may not alleviate the emotional scars they carry, the settlement brings them some closure after years of legal proceedings.

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