Former LSU Defensive Back Sues School and Medical Center for Negligence

Former LSU defensive back and team captain, Greg Brooks, has initiated legal proceedings against Louisiana State University (LSU) and Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, alleging negligence after his football career was cut short due to a brain tumor. The lawsuit, filed in August, accuses coaches of failing to act and trainers of misdiagnosing his condition, while it also presents claims against the surgeon involved in his medical care.

Brooks contends that he began experiencing symptoms during football practice last August but was not reasonably advised by the coaching and medical staff, leading him to continue participating in two games. The allegations highlight an environment where his starting position was threatened unless he played, despite being unwell. It was only after an MRI scan in September that his brain tumor was identified, resulting in urgent surgical intervention.

In a detailed legal document obtained by Yahoo Sports, Brooks, now described as “permanently disabled,” states he remains unable to walk a year after the operation. The lawsuit claims that during surgery performed by Dr. Brandon Gaynor, Brooks suffered “multiple strokes” due to malpractice, resulting in “catastrophic neurological injuries.” The malpractice claims are currently under review.

Additional figures named in the lawsuit include head coach Ed Orgeron, former defensive coordinator Bo Pelini, and head athletic trainer Owen Stanley, alongside team doctors Stephen Etheredge and Vincent Shaw. Brooks criticizes these individuals for their role in the alleged mishandling of his medical situation.

In response, Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center issued a statement offering sympathy for Brooks’ continued recovery, noting, “Due to patient privacy laws and pending litigation, we can’t comment on specific individuals or situations.” They affirmed their commitment to providing excellent healthcare.

LSU also expressed their ongoing support for Brooks through his rehabilitation, stating, “Since the beginning of our agreement with our Championship Health Partner, Our Lady of the Lake, they have provided exceptional medical care for our student-athletes in all of our sports.” However, they declined to comment on the litigation directly.

Further allegations from Brooks include LSU’s unauthorized use of his name, image, and likeness, alongside failing to transfer a fund established in his name. The NCAA policy requires documentation for the distribution of such financial resources, which has not been addressed by LSU in their statement.

A court date for the lawsuit has been scheduled for February 10, 2024, before Judge Tiffany Foxworth-Roberts. In recent developments, Brooks’ legal team has requested subpoenas for LSU, its board of supervisors, and the Louisiana office of the commissioner of administration.