A tragic incident unfolded as a man passed away due to severe constipation, with 1.4st of impacted feces lodged in his bowels after enduring a month without bowel movements. The family of James Stewart, aged 41, has initiated a wrongful death lawsuit, deeming his demise as preventable. Allegations suggest negligence by staff at the group home where James resided, who purportedly disregarded signs such as abdominal swelling and unusual behavior leading up to his death on November 15, 2024.
According to the lawsuit, James had not relieved himself for several weeks to a month, prompting the legal action against Clear Skies Ahead in Bazetta Township, Ohio. James, who required constant supervision and assistance, had intellectual and/or developmental disabilities alongside a known history of constipation, as per documents reviewed by the Independent. His prescribed medication had severe digestive side effects. The family fondly remembered his passion for music, swimming, and sports.
The lawsuit alleged that staff dismissed James’ complaints about constipation, despite observing his deteriorating health and abnormal behavior preceding his passing. Described as despondent and low on energy, James complained of pain, exhibited a swollen abdomen, and showed signs of bruising.
Attorney Matt Mooney, representing the family, highlighted that Clear Skies Ahead staff were aware of James’ condition and constipation history. He emphasized the staff’s failure to monitor James’ bowel movements adequately, despite being informed. On the day of his demise, a staff member instructed James to use the toilet but to no avail.
James was later discovered collapsed in his room and rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was pronounced dead. Inquiries have been made to Clear Skies Ahead for their response to the situation.