Sally Jo Bennett v. HHS - Influenza, Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS) (2023)
Case summary [AI summaries can sometimes make mistakes]
Debbie L. Aretz, as Personal Representative of the Estate of Sally Jo Bennett, filed a petition for compensation under the National Vaccine Injury Compensation Program.
Petitioner alleged that Sally Jo Bennett received an influenza vaccine on October 4, 2019, and subsequently suffered from Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), which met the Table definition for GBS. Petitioner also alleged that Ms.
Bennett passed away due to her GBS injury. The case was assigned to the Special Processing Unit.
Respondent filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding that Petitioner is entitled to compensation, finding that the injury met the criteria set forth in the Vaccine Injury Table. A ruling on entitlement was issued on January 18, 2023, finding Petitioner entitled to compensation.
Subsequently, Respondent filed a proffer on award of compensation, proposing an award of $380,500.00, which included $250,000.00 for the death benefit, $127,500.00 for pain and suffering, and $3,000.00 for lost wages. Petitioner agreed with the proffered award.
The Chief Special Master issued a decision awarding Petitioner the lump sum of $380,500.00.