West Columbia Care Center Faces Wrongful Death Lawsuit
WEST COLUMBIA — A local assisted living facility is at the center of a troubling wrongful death lawsuit after a tragic incident that left a family grieving. The lawsuit targets Colonial Gardens Alzheimer’s Special Care Center, along with Lexington and Richland counties, following the choking death of 77-year-old Raymond W. Sikes Sr.
The Details Behind the Tragedy
This heartbreaking case has ignited discussions about the standards of care in facilities dedicated to vulnerable populations like those battling Alzheimer’s and dementia. According to the complaint filed by Sikes’ daughter, Betina Keller, the care center failed to provide appropriate care and supervision on that dreadful day, November 2, 2022.
Sikes, who was enjoying a meal in the center’s dining area, suddenly began to choke. The lawsuit alleges that while staff members tried to perform the Heimlich maneuver and called emergency medical services, they did not take additional necessary steps to assist Mr. Sikes. Imagine the panic—staff rushing around, dialing numbers, yet his life hung in the balance. It’s a scene that is as tragic as it is alarming.
Emergency Response Under Scrutiny
According to the complaint, emergency responders arrived on the scene at 5:13 p.m., but rather than jumping into action, they reportedly took several minutes before initiating lifesaving measures. By the time Sikes became unresponsive, it was too late; he sadly passed away that same day. The question many are asking is: What went wrong?
In her lawsuit, Keller claims that the Lexington and Richland county EMS units, as well as the center’s management companies—Sunshine Retirement Living and Caddy LLC—are partially to blame. She argues that all these entities failed to adequately assess and prevent the choking risk her father faced.
Calls for Accountability
In a facility dedicated to the care of those with significant cognitive impairments, one would hope for a safety net to catch moments like these. Keller’s lawsuit raises serious questions about the preparedness and vigilance of the care staff and management in preventing such incidents from happening in the first place. After all, it’s not just about providing food to residents; it’s about ensuring their safety while they eat it.
As of now, officials at the Colonial Gardens Alzheimer’s Special Care Center have not made any remarks regarding the claims. Meanwhile, representatives from both Lexington County and Richland County have opted to refrain from commenting on the ongoing lawsuit.
The Bigger Picture
West Columbia residents are left wondering how such an avoidable tragedy could occur within their community. Families choosing care facilities for their loved ones depend on these establishments to provide more than just shelter; they expect an environment brimming with compassion, respect, and diligence in care. This case highlights the urgent need for reviews of safety protocols in similar assisted living establishments across the country to ensure that such heartbreaking situations become a thing of the past.
This tragic incident has not only impacted the Sikes family deeply; it has also sparked a conversation among residents, prompting discussions about the current conditions and regulations surrounding assisted living facilities in the area.
As this story unfolds, one can only hope that it serves as a wake-up call for facilities and families alike, ensuring the utmost care and attention is paid to our most vulnerable populations. If nothing else, this case serves to remind us that everyone deserves to have their dignity and life respected, especially during their twilight years.
For further updates, stay tuned as details continue to emerge.
