Former Timbers' goalkeeper wins more than 20M in medical negligence lawsuit

In a landmark ruling, former Timbers' goalkeeper Jake Gleeson has been awarded over $20 million following a medical negligence lawsuit against the team's surgeon. The lawsuit originated in 2018 when Gleeson received a plate that had not been properly sterilized, leading to a serious infection. This negligence forced him to undergo three surgeries within five days to clear the infection. Gleeson recounted his experiences, noting his instinct that something was wrong, which prompted him to seek a new medical provider. His attorney, Greg Kafoury, criticized the way sports organizations often prioritize profits over player safety, urging a reconsideration of how athletes are treated.

Gleeson's case serves as a critical reminder of the responsibilities medical professionals have towards their patients. It raises essential questions about the ethics of medical practices in professional sports. KATU News reached out to the defendants for comment but did not receive a response.