Sullivan Papain Secures $2.8 Million Settlement in Wrongful Death Medical Malpractice Case

Sullivan Papain is proud to report that firm member Eleni Coffinas secured a $2,800,000 settlement on April 7, 2026, in a wrongful death medical malpractice case arising out of the Bronx.

The case involved a 28-year-old expectant mother who was already raising a seven-year-old child when she presented to the defendant hospital in the midst of a sickle cell crisis. The patient had a known history of sickle cell disease and had previously been advised that pregnancy could significantly worsen her condition. Despite these risks, she became pregnant and sought medical care when her symptoms escalated.

According to the claims, the hospital failed to timely and properly administer a necessary blood transfusion during the crisis. Prompt transfusion therapy is widely recognized as a critical component in managing severe sickle cell episodes, particularly in high-risk patients such as those who are pregnant. It was alleged that this delay allowed her condition to deteriorate, ultimately leading to multi-organ failure.

In the months following her hospital presentation, the patient’s health continued to decline. Tragically, she passed away, leaving behind her young child and family. The case was brought as a wrongful death action, alleging that the failure to provide appropriate and timely treatment deprived her of a chance at survival.

The defendant hospital contested liability, arguing that the patient’s death was the result of liver failure unrelated to any alleged delay in transfusion. The defense further contended that her underlying sickle cell disease significantly limited her life expectancy even under optimal medical care.

Despite these defenses, the case proceeded to the point of jury selection in the Bronx before ultimately being resolved. The matter settled for $2,800,000.

Learn More About Firm Member Eleni Coffinas

Eleni Coffinas, a member of the firm, is a vigorous advocate for people injured due to medical malpractice. Her legal skills and experience have helped her clients achieve many multimillion-dollar settlements. Ms. Coffinas handles all types of medical malpractice cases, including birth injuries, cancer diagnosis delay, and surgical and cardiac cases.

To learn more about Firm Member Eleni Coffinas, click here.