Family of man who died of heart attack after allegedly being diagnosed with heartburn sues

GRETNA – The surviving family of a man who died from a heart attack after allegedly being diagnosed as only having heart burn is suing the heart doctor who treated him over his death.

Gayness Reginelli Garey and Brittany Garey Pearson, individually and on behalf of the estate of Michael A. Garey, filed suit against Louisiana Medical Mutual Insurance Company and Stanley D. Bleich M.D. in the 24th Judicial District Court on Sept. 22.

The Gareys assert that their patriarch Michael A. Garey, who was 51-years-old at the time, went to East Jefferson General Hospital on Jan. 16, 2011 with symptoms of coronary artery disease at which time he was assessed by the on duty emergency room doctor who came to the conclusion he was suffering from heart problems. The plaintiffs claim Michael A. Garey was later admitted into the hospital under the care of Bleich, a cardiologist, and a stress test returned negative results for heart malfunction resulting in his release on Jan. 17, 2011 and given medication to treat heartburn. However, just four days later on Jan. 21, 2011 Michael A. Garey died at his home due to a heart attack.

The Gareys allege that Bleich misdiagnosed Michael A. Garey’s condition, which after an autopsy was shown to be extensive coronary artery disease that resulted in a ruptured artery.

The defendant is accused of medical malpractice and wrongful death.

An unspecified amount in damages is sought for mental anguish, loss of consortium, loss of society, loss of love and affection, loss of services, loss of financial support, burial expenses and bystander damages from having witnessed the death.

The Gareys are represented by Robert J. David of New Orleans-based Gainsburgh, Benjamin, David, Meunier & Warshauer LLC.

The case has been assigned to Division M Judge Stephen D. Enright Jr.

Case no. 742-705.