Photo: KXAN
A Texas family claims they lost custody of their children after doctors misdiagnosed their sick infant as being abused — a diagnosis that later turned out to be incorrect.
The diagnosis set off a chain reaction for the Troy family. The infant, known as JJ, and his older brother were removed from the home and placed into foster care. Jason was charged with two felony counts of child abuse, which carried a potential sentence between five and 99 years.
As things progressed, Jason Troy began to question his own actions. “There was some doubt,” he tells the station. “Like, was there something I did?”
Staunchly maintaining their innocence, the Troy family continued to press for answers. Finally, a medical expert in Maryland — more than 1,500 miles away — managed to properly diagnose JJ. He had benign external hydrocephalus, a rare condition where spinal fluid can build out outside of the brain, leading to swelling.
After Jason Jonathan was properly diagnosed, authorities dropped the charges against Jason, and the children were reunited with their family — but the Troy family says that lasting damage was done to their children.
“My oldest son lost 20 pounds within six weeks of being taken from us,” Lorina Troy told KXAN. “Medical reports show that he showed signs of sadness and depression.”
The family has not sued the doctor who misdiagnosed their son, and the two-year statute of limitations has expired.
Instead, the family has decided to raise awareness about the issues of misdiagnosis.
Last week, they met at the Texas state capitol with state Rep. James Frank (R-Wichita Falls), and shared their story. According toFox7Austin.com, they are planning to meet with their district representative soon.
Lorina Troy alsowrote a bookabout the family’s struggles.
source: people.com
