Furious Patient Sues After Doctor Paints Mustache and Tears on Face During Surgery Prank
Here’s a story that will probably make you nervous the next time you have to go to the hospital for surgery.
Veronica Valdez is suing Torrance Memorial Hospital, in Torrance, California, after an anesthesiologist drew a mustache and teardrops on her face while she was unconscious during a minor procedure she had in 2011.
Valdez, who used to work at the hospital, claims a photo of her was circulated around the facility and embarrassed her so much that she had to leave her position.
The doctor who took the photo, Patrick Yang, was suspended for two weeks, but has since been reinstated. A nurse who took the picture and texted it to Valdez was also suspended.
For his part, Yang was just hoping to get some yuks. He said, "I thought she would think this is funny and she would appreciate it.”
It’s unclear how much Valdez is seeking in her suit. The case is slated to go to trial in January.