A 17-year-old girl from Swinford, Co Mayo, has received a €4 million settlement following a fall at age three and a half that left her paralysed from the neck down. Róisín Tansey, who has appeared on RTÉ’s The Late Late Show, stated that while the settlement is a relief, “Today’s settlement gives me back nothing of what I lost, nor of what my family lost, when this happened to me.”
Underlying Condition and Initial Injury
The incident occurred on the evening of January 11, 2013, when Róisín fell from an armchair at home. At the time, she had an undiagnosed condition where brain tissue extended into her spinal canal – a Chiari malformation. Following the fall, Róisín complained of weakness in her arms and was initially taken to Mayo University Hospital.
Delayed Diagnosis and Treatment
Initial X-rays at Mayo University Hospital were normal, but staff became concerned about a potential neurological issue. Róisín was transferred to Temple Street hospital in the early hours of January 12. Although an MRI was deemed necessary, it wasn’t conducted until 12pm that afternoon. The MRI ultimately revealed the Chiari malformation. Following the scan, Róisín underwent surgery, but her legal team asserts she was already paralysed at that point.
Róisín spent months in hospital and rehabilitation, and now requires constant nursing care and uses a wheelchair. Her lawyers argued that earlier diagnosis and treatment could have lessened the severity of her injuries, a claim that was denied but ultimately led to the settlement reached through mediation.
Settlement and Future Implications
Mr Justice Paul Coffey approved the €4 million settlement, describing it as “very prudent.” Róisín expressed hope that the outcome of her case “may prevent a similar outcome befalling someone else in the future.” Her solicitor, David O’Malley, encouraged similar cases to pursue mediation and advocated for legislation to streamline the process.
While the settlement concludes a nine-year legal journey for Róisín and her family, she acknowledged that her daily challenges will remain. She intends to “embrace life with ambition, determination and hope.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Róisín Tansey’s injuries?
Róisín Tansey’s injuries were the result of a fall from an armchair at age three and a half, complicated by an existing, undiagnosed Chiari malformation – a condition where brain tissue extends into the spinal canal.
Was responsibility for the injuries admitted?
No, the settlement was reached without admission of liability. The claims made by Róisín’s lawyers regarding a potential for less severe injuries with earlier treatment were denied.
What is the significance of the settlement amount?
The settlement of €4 million is intended to provide for Róisín Tansey’s ongoing care needs, including constant nursing care and the use of a wheelchair, resulting from her paralysis.
What does it mean to navigate life with such significant physical challenges, and how can communities better support individuals facing similar circumstances?
