Latasha George v. HHS - Influenza, SIRVA injury (2014)

Latasha George filed a petition on August 29, 2013, seeking compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program. She alleged injuries resulting from a flu vaccine administered on September 9, 2010.

The respondent conceded that Ms. George was entitled to compensation for a Shoulder Injury Related to Vaccine Administration (SIRVA).

Special Master Lisa Hamilton-Fieldman issued a decision on March 24, 2014, adopting a proffer on the award of compensation. Ms.

George was awarded a lump sum payment of $1,036,839.63. This amount comprised compensation for lost future earnings ($593,700.00), past lost earnings ($124,582.91), pain and suffering ($167,412.72), past unreimbursable expenses ($86,845.00), and future medical expenses ($64,299.00).

All compensation was awarded under 42 U.S.C. § 300aa-15(a). Petitioner was represented by Damon Louis Beard of Lake Charles, LA, and respondent was represented by Gordon Elliott Shemin of Washington, DC.

Subsequently, on June 13, 2014, the parties filed a stipulation concerning attorneys' fees and costs. Special Master Hamilton-Fieldman issued a decision on June 13, 2014, awarding a total of $47,500.00 for attorneys' fees and costs.

This amount was to be paid in a check made payable jointly to Petitioner and Petitioner's counsel, Damon L. Beard, Esq.

The petition was brought in good faith with a reasonable basis for the claim.