Steven S. Mills v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré syndrome (2022)

Steven S. Mills, as personal representative of the Estate of Meri E.

Boatman, filed a petition on December 11, 2017, alleging that Meri E. Boatman received an influenza vaccine on November 5, 2016.

The petition claimed that Ms. Boatman subsequently suffered from Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and passed away as a result of this vaccine-related injury.

The respondent, the Secretary of Health and Human Services, denied that the flu vaccine caused Ms. Boatman's GBS or her death.

Despite maintaining their respective positions, the parties reached a stipulation to settle the issues. The stipulation provided for a lump sum award of $40,000.00, payable to petitioner as legal representative of the Estate of Meri E.

Boatman, representing compensation for all damages. Special Master Thomas L.

Gowen issued a decision on stipulation on June 30, 2022, and judgment was entered in accordance with the stipulation. Petitioner counsel was Leah V.

Durant. Respondent counsel was Andrew Henning.