Couple Sues for Surprise Pregnancy Following Vasectomy
In 2007, Dr. Stephan Schepergerdes of Eugene, Oregon performed the standard procedure of a vasectomy on Scott Bassinger who soon after brought in a semen sample to make sure he was sterile. Yup, Dr. Schpergerdes' staff said. Some 19 months later, though, Donnita had a little pink line staring back at her from a pregnancy test that said otherwise. (Looks like he sat on a package of these frozen peas for nothing! See picture left.)
According to Outpatient Surgery, Dr. Schepergerdes allegedly noted in his records that he had difficulty dissecting Mr. Bassinger's tubes during the procedure, a message never conveyed to the Bassingers. The suit also alleges that Mr. Bassinger's semen sample showed sperm "too numerous to count," even though the couple was told that he was now sterile.
Related: Near fatal mix up: Pharmacy gives abortion pill to pregnant woman instead of antibiotic
Here's how the $650,000 lawsuit breaks down:
$35,000 to cover medical expenses related to the pregnancy.
$500,000 to raise the child.
$140,000 for college.
Related: Whaa? Doctor prescribes pot to pregnant woman, may lose license
So two things here…how would you feel if you were the kid? I mean, if true, the doctor and his staff were guilty of horrible ineptitude, but still! Second, the Bassingers are trying to head that off at the pass via an e-mail statement they made to the Eugene Register-Guard. In it, the couple said they are "thankful" for their son but also pointed out the "challenges of raising a child late in life and the increased medical risks one faces when having a baby at age 42."
Related: Choosing a C-section: My fear, my anger, my acceptance, my empowerment
By the way, did you notice that they had a son? Because if they had a girl, I'm wondering if they would have called her Sue. (Oh my. Sorry.)
What do you think about this story? Have you ever heard of anything like it?
