Bluefield man blames optometrist for son's death

CHARLESTON -- A Bluefield man is suing an optometrist he claims was negligent in caring for his son and caused his death.

On Oct. 18, 2011, Tate Daniel Kandas died of a brain tumor at CAMC's Women's and Children's Hospital, according to a complaint filed May 9 in Kanawha Circuit Court.

Daniel C. Kandas claims Dr. Luke Stillwell was careless, reckless and negligent in his care and treatment of Tate Daniel Kandas by failing to properly treat, diagnose, investigate and/or follow-up on the case of Tate Daniel Kandas' left eye turning in toward his nose on June 10, 2011.

Stillwell's actions were in reckless disregard for the welfare of Tate Daniel Kandas in the care and treatment provided to him, according to the suit.

Daniel C. Kandas claims the defendant's actions in failing to properly and timely provide critical care and treatment to Tate Daniel Kandas was in violation of the applicable standard of care.

Daniel C. Kandas is seeking compensatory and punitive damages with pre- and post-judgment interest. He is being represented by Richard D. Lindsay and Richard D. Lindsay II.

The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge James C. Stucky.

Kanawha Circuit Court case number: 12-C-836