Cancer Misdiagnoses Devastating for Wichita Patients, An Attorney Discusses

The case of Gary Matsumura is a cautionary example of a cancer misdiagnosis. Matsumura, an OB/GYN physician, had tests done in November 2017 as part of his follow-up to a bout of lung cancer. Matsumura was devastated when the tests found multiple lesions on both lungs – his original cancer was confined to his left lung – that appeared to be cancer. “The floor fell out from under me,” he recalled. “How could my disease be progressing so fast?” 

His thoughts turned to the heartbreaking regret of leaving behind his children and 2-year-old grandson. His wife spoke of having the family cat, Peaches, put to sleep when he died so they could be buried together. Crying, she talked about not wanting to live without him. Thought Matsumura: 

I asked myself, “Why me?” I get adequate rest and I exercise every day. I used to be a Seventh-day Adventist and have been a vegetarian most of my life. I have never smoked nor do I drink. I asked, “Why me?” 

Can it possibly get worse? Yes

In addition to being physically “wiped out” from his chemotherapy, Matsumura faced huge medical bills. The new drug came with a monthly price tag of $12,000. The cost of scans was another $27,000. 

Then Matsumura learned the truth: He had an infection. He didn’t have cancer. In addition to suffering emotionally, mentally and physically, even with insurance and Medicare, he had been spending thousands upon thousands of dollars for no good reason.  

As it turns out, lung infections, such as pneumonia, share many of the same symptoms as lung cancer. Patients may experience intense coughing, wheezing, difficulty breathing, and chest pain.  

What to do if you've been the victim of a misdiagnosis

You may feel like you are at the mercy of the medical experts. They have years, if not decades, of training and experience. What you need is a legal advocate who will fight to protect your rights. The medical malpractice attorneys at the Warner Law Offices in Wichita have more than 25 years of experience handling cases just like yours. We know how to deal with doctors, their lawyers, and their insurance companies in Kansas. You pay no fee unless we win your case. Contact us for a free, no-obligation consultation.