Thursday, May 26, 2016

The Jury is IN!!

Good afternoon Pooka family! I am writing this blog on a beautiful Wednesday afternoon and what makes it even more beautiful is that this is my 8th day of jury duty service and the judge informed us that the case has been settled. 

This is my first time serving on a jury. I've wanted to but I've only been called once and I was not selected. I've always considered jury duty as my opportunity to be involved in the legal process. I started college as a criminal justice major with the goal to become an attorney but ended up changing my major to business management because my dad told me that criminals don't have any money. :) I wish I would have followed my passion but I'm a firm believer that things happen for a reason so I am where I am suppose to be in my life and career. 

So, about the case, since it's concluded now I can talk about it. The case involved an assisted living facility and a resident who had subsequently died as a result of a 2nd choking incident. The son filed a lawsuit of neglect as to the care and administration of his mother. In my opinion her care was not a conscience neglect by the facility but more of a lack of communication and execution of the well documented procedures of the facility. As a result I would have still voted for the plaintiff because the facility had the responsibility of care for the resident and it was a lack of execution in their process that resulted in the choking incidents (note plural on incident). 

I learned a lot from this case in terms of the difference between Assisted Living Facility, Skilled/Nursing Facility also regarding  dementia, NJ regulations on standards of care and internal practices.  One of the main lessons I learned from this case is no matter how reputable, highly recommended, expensive or effective a salesperson is; when it comes to the care of a loved one it is imperative that you stay involved and ask questions. When you put the care of your loved one in someone else's hands; although it is their financial responsibility to care for them, it remains your sole responsibility as parent, child or loved one. And that goes for hospitals, care facilities, day cares, schools and the list goes on.

Stay blessed Pooka family!!!