An Antiguan couple has launched legal proceedings against the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre and obstetrician Dr. Daryen Ephraim, alleging medical negligence led to the stillbirth of their baby in October 2022.

Gretchen Saunders-Christopher and her husband, Rody Christopher, are seeking compensation for emotional distress. Mrs. Saunders-Christopher has reportedly been diagnosed with post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and anxiety following the incident.

The hospital sought to have the case dismissed on the grounds that it was filed outside the six-month window allowed under the Public Authorities Protection Act. However, Justice Carlos Michel ruled earlier this week that the question of limitation must be determined at trial, given its close connection to the negligence claims.

Both the hospital and Dr. Ephraim have denied the allegations, maintaining that the care provided met professional standards.

The trial is expected to span two days, focusing on both the issue of liability and whether the legal action was brought within the appropriate timeframe.