A troubling case from Florida has raised serious questions about medical safety, accountability, and gaps in the healthcare system. What should have been a joyful moment for a first-time mother turned into a lifelong struggle for her child. The situation has also highlighted concerns about how some healthcare providers may continue practicing despite not meeting legal requirements.
What Happened During the Home Birth
In 2021, Victoria Vasser chose to have a home birth for her first child, with support from Medicaid and a licensed midwife. She worked with Sizzly Auer, based in Wesley Chapel, Florida.
During labour, a serious complication occurred known as shoulder dystocia, where the baby’s shoulder becomes stuck during delivery. According to the complaint, instead of following safe medical procedures, the midwife allegedly used excessive force and instructed the mother to continue pushing.
This reportedly caused severe nerve damage to the baby’s spinal cord. As a result, her son Dylan was born with a condition that left his right arm unable to function properly.
The Impact on the Child and Family
Dylan’s injury is not temporary. Doctors have confirmed that he will face long-term challenges and will require ongoing medical care, including frequent therapy sessions.
His mother shared that he needs occupational therapy multiple times a week. However, due to financial and work limitations, she is unable to take him as often as required. The cost of treatment is also higher than what Medicaid covers, putting additional pressure on the family.
Legal Action and Investigation
Victoria Vasser filed a formal complaint against the midwife. Court documents revealed that instructing a mother to push during shoulder dystocia is not considered safe practice in such situations.
An investigation also found that the midwife may not have had the required insurance to legally practice in Florida. This raised serious concerns about how she was allowed to continue working with patients.
Insurance and Licensing Concerns
Reports suggest that between 2017 and 2023, the midwife claimed she was not practising in Florida when renewing her license. By doing so, she avoided paying for mandatory insurance coverage.
Despite this, she continued delivering babies, including those covered under Medicaid. This has led to questions about how such activities went unnoticed by authorities.
Lawsuit Outcome and Financial Struggles
In 2024, a court ruled in favour of Victoria Vasser and awarded her more than $12 million in a medical malpractice case. However, because the midwife did not have insurance, the family has not received any compensation.
This has made an already difficult situation even more stressful, as the family continues to struggle with the cost of ongoing medical care for their child.
Restrictions on Practice
Following the incident, some major healthcare institutions, including Tampa General Hospital, have banned the midwife from practising at their facilities. However, legal experts argue that stronger action may still be needed.
Concerns have been raised about whether simply restricting access to hospitals is enough, especially when patient safety is involved.
Why This Case Matters
This case is not just about one family—it highlights larger issues within the healthcare system. It raises important questions about regulation, monitoring, and the responsibility of ensuring that medical professionals follow proper rules.
When providers operate without insurance or oversight, it can leave patients vulnerable and without support when something goes wrong.
