A North Carolina mother, LaChunda Hunter, is suing Novant Health Presbyterian Medical Center in Charlotte after a series of alleged miscommunications left her in extreme emotional distress regarding the fate of her newborn daughter, Legacy.
According to Hunter’s lawsuit, the ordeal began on Feb. 19, 2022, when hospital staff initially told her that Legacy had died just hours after reporting improvement in her health. Hunter had been informed that Legacy’s jaundice, elevated white blood cell count, and breathing issues were improving and that the baby was responding to treatment.
Conflicting Updates
Two days later, on Feb. 22, Hunter received a shocking phone call from Dr. Jay Kothadia, who allegedly told her that Legacy’s condition had dramatically improved and that the baby was alive. Hunter’s assistant reportedly exclaimed, “You told her that her baby was dead!” during the call, but Dr. Kothadia immediately hung up, leaving Hunter in distress.
Subsequently, Dr. Preethi Srinivasakumar contacted Hunter, claiming the previous call referenced test results for a different baby. When Hunter questioned the situation, Dr. Srinivasakumar allegedly became defensive, warning Hunter that seeking answers in person could result in security intervention and arrest, and advised her to get a lawyer.
Emotional Toll and Legal Action
Hunter says the incident caused severe psychological trauma, including anxiety, depression, PTSD, and intrusive thoughts. She also revealed that a DNA test on the child she was given to bury returned inconclusive, leaving her with lingering uncertainty about Legacy’s fate.
Hunter stated at a press conference: “I don’t want any mother to feel this. I don’t want any mother to go through what I’m going through.”
Novant Health responded cautiously, citing privacy laws but emphasizing that it takes all concerns seriously and is committed to compassionate care for families.
This lawsuit highlights not only potential medical errors but the profound emotional consequences of miscommunication during critical moments in patient care.
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