Former New Zealand goalkeeper Jake Gleeson secures $20 million lawsuit victory against Portland Timbers team doctor after suffering lasting pain that prevents him from walking comfortably.
A former New Zealand goalkeeper has received a $20 million settlement after successfully suing a Portland Timbers team doctor for medical malpractice.
WHAT HAPPENED?
According to ESPN, Jake Gleeson underwent surgery in 2018 to treat stress fractures in both legs, but complications arose due to infections. It was claimed that the plates inserted during the procedure were not properly sterilized by Portland Timbers team doctor Dr. Richard Edelson. A jury has now ruled in favor of the former New Zealand international, awarding him just over $20 million (£15.5m).
WHAT JAKE GLEESON SAID
Gleeson spoke following the verdict. “It’s been a very hard six-and-a-half years, some weeks are better than others, some days are better than others. But it’s been very difficult. I think now moving forward from this case, I just want to be an advocate that when you’re put under anesthesia from a doctor, you expect them to follow these guidelines and these policies. It doesn’t matter if you’re an MLS player, it doesn’t matter if you’re an NFL player, it doesn’t matter if you work a desk job. When you sign that consent form, you’re signing that they’re going to do everything in their power to keep you safe. This doctor did not do that.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
The report states that Gleeson is now “unable to walk without pain” due to the surgical complications. The former Team Wellington player underwent a total of 14 operations, which ultimately ended his career at just 28. After a four-and-a-half-year legal battle, Gleeson—who played for the Timbers from 2010 to 2018—has emerged victorious in court.
WHAT NEXT?
The report notes that while an appeal is expected, Gleeson was also granted over $400,000 for previous medical expenses, $387,500 for future medical costs, and $2 million for lost wages. In total, the compensation amounted to $20.4 million.
