In a landmark medical malpractice case, Jessica Powell, a former teacher from Camilla, Georgia, was awarded $70 million after a life-saving treatment led to the amputation of both her legs. This verdict stands as one of the largest in Georgia’s history, highlighting the severe consequences of medical negligence.
A Routine Illness Turns Catastrophic
In March 2013, 28-year-old Jessica Powell collapsed at home due to a stomach virus compounded by complications from a hormone deficiency disease. She was rushed to Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital in Albany, where doctors diagnosed her with sepsis and shock. To stabilize her dangerously low blood pressure, medical staff administered Vasopressin, a drug designed to constrict blood vessels and elevate blood pressure. However, Powell received the drug at two and a half times the recommended maximum dose, and this excessive administration continued for over 40 hours. The prolonged overdose severely restricted blood flow to her legs and feet, depriving the tissues of oxygen and leading to irreversible damage. Consequently, both of Powell’s legs had to be amputated above the knee.
A Decade-Long Legal Battle
Following the life-altering procedure, Powell initiated a lawsuit against multiple individuals and institutions involved in her care, including Doctors Joe Morgan, James Palazzolo, and Thomas Ungarino, as well as Albany Pulmonary and Critical Care Associates and Albany Vascular Specialist Center. Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital, where the treatment occurred, settled Powell’s claims prior to trial and was no longer listed as a defendant. The legal proceedings spanned over 12 years, during which the defendants consistently denied any wrongdoing. Despite overwhelming evidence presented during the two and a half weeks of testimony, the medical professionals maintained that the treatment provided was appropriate under the circumstances.
On April 23, 2025, a jury in Dougherty County deliberated for just 30 minutes before siding with Powell, awarding her $70 million in damages. The jury apportioned liability equally: 50% to Dr. Morgan and Albany Vascular Specialist Center, and the remaining 50% to Drs. Palazzolo and Ungarino, along with Albany Pulmonary and Critical Care Associates.
Reactions to the Verdict
Powell’s legal team viewed the swift verdict as a clear indication of the jury’s recognition of the medical negligence involved. Matt Cook, one of Powell’s lead attorneys, stated, “The verdict came as no surprise because we knew from day one that our client was clearly mistreated by her physicians.” He emphasized that the defendants’ refusal to acknowledge their mistakes likely influenced the jury’s decision. Conversely, attorneys representing the doctors and medical groups expressed disagreement with the verdict, asserting that the physicians acted appropriately under extraordinarily difficult circumstances. They contended that the amputations, while devastating, were an unavoidable consequence of the life-saving treatment provided.
A Life Transformed
Now 40, Jessica Powell continues to adapt to life as a double amputee. Despite the challenges, she remains resilient, drawing strength from her family and the support of her community. The substantial compensation awarded aims to assist in covering medical expenses, prosthetics, and other necessities to improve her quality of life.
Conclusion
Jessica Powell’s case underscores the critical importance of adhering to medical guidelines and the potential consequences of negligence. It serves as a stark reminder of the responsibility healthcare providers bear in ensuring patient safety. As Powell moves forward, her story stands as both a cautionary tale and a testament to human resilience in the face of adversity.
