Suit: Dist. 303 could have saved drill team member

As Lauren Laman lay lifeless on the cafeteria floor, one of her drill team coaches at St. Charles North High School performed CPR while two others obtained a defibrillator.

But the potentially lifesaving device was never used and - by the time paramedics arrived - the 18-year-old had no pulse, according to a lawsuit filed Wednesday in Kane County Circuit Court.

Laman's father is suing School District 303, North High School and three coaches for more than $50,000, claiming negligence in the senior's death one year ago Sunday.

"Clearly, this was a tragedy for everyone involved," District 303 Superintendent Don Schlomann responded. "The parents have chosen this course and we will respond through the legal system as well."

Remembered for her bubbly personality and love of dance, Laman collapsed Feb. 8, 2008, while practicing a varsity drill routine in the school cafeteria.

When the teen didn't respond to her name being called out, coach Nancy Franson began cardiopulmonary resuscitation and told a teammate to get the assistant principal. According to the lawsuit, two other coaches, Tanis Loudon and Therese Perkins, then arrived with an automated external defibrillator - but no one used it.

An autopsy later showed Laman died of mitral valve prolapse, a heart condition that prevents a valve between the upper and lower left heart chambers from closing properly. The lawsuit argues Laman could have survived had district staff recognized the severity of the situation and responded more quickly.

"The delay in treatment caused serious bodily injury to (Laman), resulting in her death," the suit reads.

Neither the plaintiff, George Laman of St. Charles, nor his attorney, Laura Di Andrea-Iversen, could be reached for comment.

Schlomann said the district conducted an internal review of the incident but could recall no policy changes as a result. He declined further comment.

The case goes before Judge Stephen Sullivan April 24.