Trial News

Bernell Browley, 84, was a permanent resident of the Friendship Health and Rehab Center. Browley, who suffered from dementia and peripheral vascular disease, received daily treatment to prevent dry skin on his lower extremities and prophylactic treatment to prevent skin breakdown on his heels. Additionally, he received physician-prescribed head-to-toe skin checks every four to seven days. One day, staff noted that Browley had black spots on his toes, even though he had been assessed as having no skin concerns. A wound care specialist diagnosed him as having gangrene.

Browley subsequently died of his condition. He is survived by seven children.

Browley’s estate sued Friendship Health and Rehab Center, Inc., alleging its staff failed to monitor Browley’s skin, recognize a change in his condition, and take reasonable precautions to prevent skin breakdown.

The parties settled for $150,000.

Citation: Brawley v. Friendship Health & Rehab Ctr., Inc., No. CL22-111 (Va. Cir. Ct. Roanoke Cnty. Jan. 12, 2024).

Plaintiff counsel: Mark D. Obenshain and Justin M. Wolcott, both of Harrisonburg, Va.