Naperville hospital found negligent after woman loses baby

A Bolingbrook woman who lost her unborn child in 2004 while being treated at Edward Hospital in Naperville has been awarded an $11.5 million verdict by a DuPage County jury.

The jury Tuesday found the staff of the hospital negligent, according to attorneys Robert Strelecky and Mary Sweeney of the Clifford Law Offices.

Sabine Miller, 30, was 14 weeks pregnant in November of 2004 when she was admitted to the hospital and treated for abdominal pains. Medical personnel failed to monitor her deteriorating condition and that of her unborn baby, attorneys said.

They added Miller lost consciousness due to septic shock. Her small intestine stopped working, forcing the hospital to remove it. Miller received a transplant months later at Northwestern Hospital, but still faces medical challenges.

After a five-hour deliberation, the jury returned a verdict of $10.5 million for her injuries and $1 million for the death of her unborn baby, the attorneys said.

Edward Hospital officials said in a statement, “We are disappointed with the verdict, but continue to respect the jury system. Edward is committed to providing the finest care to all of its patients. We wish the best for Sabine and Daniel Miller.”