Gary Hetrick v. HHS - Tdap, shoulder injury related to vaccine administration (SIRVA) (2026)
Case summary [AI summaries can sometimes make mistakes]
On June 13, 2025, Gary Hetrick filed a petition seeking compensation for a shoulder injury related to vaccine administration after receiving Tdap and pneumococcal conjugate vaccinations on August 16, 2023. Respondent filed a Rule 4(c) report conceding entitlement.
The public entitlement ruling states that respondent agreed Mr. Hetrick satisfied the Table SIRVA requirements and the legal prerequisites for compensation, but it does not recount the first pain report, injection placement, imaging, therapy, injections, or functional course.
On January 28, 2026, Chief Special Master Brian H. Corcoran found Mr.
Hetrick entitled to compensation. On February 17, 2026, the Chief Special Master adopted the parties' proffer and awarded $50,000.00 for pain and suffering.
Because Mr. Hetrick was a competent adult, proof of guardianship was not required, and payment was directed through counsel's IOLTA account.
Mr. Hetrick was represented by Bridget Candace McCullough of Muller Brazil, LLP.
Theory of causation
Tdap and pneumococcal conjugate vaccines on August 16, 2023 causing SIRVA; adult self-filed petitioner, exact age not stated. ENTITLEMENT CONCEDED; COMPENSATED. Rule 4(c) concession found Table SIRVA and legal prerequisites satisfied; public ruling/proffer does not provide detailed onset or treatment chronology. Award $50,000 pain and suffering. Chief SM Brian H. Corcoran; petition June 13, 2025; entitlement January 28, 2026; damages February 17, 2026. Attorney Bridget Candace McCullough, Muller Brazil.
Source PDFs
USCOURTS-cofc-1_25-vv-00993