Mum sues hospital after going blind in weeks following childbirth
A mother of ten who is now blind plans to sue Western Australia's Rockingham General Hospital.
Mii Teru Bates says she lost her sight, a fortnight after enduring an excruciating childbirth.
She blames a piece of placenta that was left behind after labour.
The mum became blind as a result, her lawyers allege, of a misdiagnosis after Ritia was born.
Ms Bates fell ill and returned to Rockingham General Hospital, but says she was sent home with pain killers and a walking frame.
Her condition did not improve and within weeks she was taken to Sir Charles Gairdner and diagnosed with septicaemia.
"When I came back home I used to see shadows but my kids had to come close to me," Ms Bates said.
Over time they vanished to black and now Ms Bates' legal counsel allege the infection was caused by a piece of placenta left behind after the birth.
Seven News approached the Health Minister and the hospital, but neither would comment on specifics.
Although the hospital said it is cooperating fully with legal proceedings that relate to the matter.
It's had a huge effect on the whole family.
Her husband said he's taken on most of the house duties, including cleaning and cooking for the children.
And the kids, aged from four to 19, chip in to help where they can.
Ms Bates says she only dreams of one day being able to see them again.
Newsbreak – May 13
