Elderly woman's representative sues nursing home over injuries from series of falls

A woman and her power of attorney have sued a nursing home over injuries allegedly suffered in a series of falls.

Constance Gatewood, as power of attorney for the disabled Bessie Gatewood, filed suit April 28 in Cook County Circuit Court against defendants CC Care, doing business as Community Care Center; Community Care Operator, doing business as Community Care Center; 6865 Financial Inc.; TM Healthcare Management; L. Lord and S. Kennedy.

According to the complaint, from Feb. 16, 2011, to March 13, 2013, Bessie Gatewood was a resident of the Community Care Center skilled nursing facility, at 4314 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago. Since her admission, Gatewood, then 76, was "at a high risk for falling and required assistance for all mobilities and transfers," the suit says.

On Aug. 11 and Nov. 8, 2011, the lawsuit states, Gatewood suffered a fall with no witnesses, and on June 22, 2012, Gatewood fell again, and then fell again Oct. 5, 2012, after which she was taken to the hospital, diagnosed with a large forehead hematoma with periorbital bleeding. Then, on Oct. 13, 2012, Gatewood fell again, the suit says.

According to the lawsuit, "Gatewood continues to experience pain and has permanent scars as a result of her falls."

The plaintiff cites violation of the Nursing Home Care Act and negligence.

The Gatewoods seek unspecified damages, plus costs and attorney fees. They are represented by attorney Jacqueline Kanter, of Kralovec, Jambois and Schwartz in Chicago.

Cook County Circuit Court Case No.: 15-L-4380.