MORGANTOWN — A Preston County couple is suing West Virginia University medical providers, alleging their negligence led to injuries to the husband.
Joseph Ruben Gillispie and Melva Gillispie filed a complaint Jan. 25 in Monongalia Circuit Court against Dr. Erich Richter and West Virginia University Hospital, alleging they failed to use reasonable care in evaluating and treating Joseph Gillispie's condition.
According to the complaint, the defendants provided ongoing and continues medical treatment to Joseph Gillispie's surgical implantation of a deep brain stimulator (DBS). As result of the defendants negligence, the suit says, Gillispie has been forced to live with great pain, mental anguish and deterioration of physical and cognitive abilities.
Melva Gillispie says she has suffered loss of affection, services and society of her husband. The plaintiffs allege the defendants did not warn Joseph Gillispie that the DBS treatment could lead to permanent neurological and cognitive decline and failed to obtain his informed consent for DBS treatment.
The plaintiffs seek jury trial, compensatory and special damages, litigation expenses, pre- and post-judgment interest and all other equitable relief. They are represented by attorneys Michael D. Crim and Hilary M. Bright of McNeer, Highland, McMunn and Varner LC in Clarksburg.
Monongalia Circuit Court Case number 17-c-43