Former Razorback/LSU Tiger Defensive back Greg Brooks Jr. breaks silence speaking out about the surgery that left him disabled…
In a recent development, former LSU and Arkansas defensive back Greg Brooks Jr. has broken his silence regarding the brain surgery that has left him permanently disabled. Brooks, who was diagnosed with a brain tumor in September 2023, underwent surgery that same month. He has since filed a lawsuit against LSU, its medical staff, and the surgeon involved, alleging negligence and medical malpractice.
According to the lawsuit, Brooks experienced symptoms such as dizziness and vertigo prior to his diagnosis. He claims that the LSU coaching staff pressured him to continue practicing despite these symptoms, and that team trainers failed to properly diagnose his condition, leading to a delay in necessary medical treatment. An MRI eventually revealed a brain tumor, which was surgically removed in September 2023. During the procedure, Brooks reportedly suffered multiple strokes due to medical errors, resulting in catastrophic neurological injuries that have left him permanently disabled.
In his first public statement since the surgery, Brooks expressed his profound disappointment and sense of betrayal. He emphasized that as a student-athlete, he placed his trust in the university’s coaching and medical staff to prioritize his health and well-being. He stated that this trust was violated, leading to life-altering consequences.
Brooks also addressed the emotional and physical challenges he has faced since the surgery. He described the difficulty of coming to terms with his new reality, including the loss of his athletic career and the need for ongoing medical care. Despite these challenges, Brooks conveyed his determination to seek justice and prevent similar incidents from happening to other athletes.
The lawsuit names several individuals, including LSU head coach Brian Kelly, former defensive coordinator Matt House, former safeties coach Kerry Cooks, head athletic trainer Owen Stanley, team doctors Stephen Etheredge and Vincent Shaw, and Dr. Brandon Gaynor, the surgeon who performed the operation. Brooks alleges that these individuals failed in their duty of care, leading to his current condition.
In response, LSU and Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center have declined to comment on the specifics of the case, citing patient privacy laws and pending litigation. However, both institutions have expressed their support for Brooks during his rehabilitation process. LSU stated, “Greg Brooks remains in our thoughts and prayers as he continues to work through the rehabilitation process.” Our Lady of the Lake emphasized the experience of their neurosurgical team, stating, “They give our patients the best opportunity for a positive outcome in any circumstance.”
Brooks’ case has sparked a broader conversation about the responsibilities of universities and medical staff in safeguarding the health of student-athletes. As the legal proceedings continue, many are closely watching to see how this case may influence policies and practices related to athlete health and safety in collegiate sports.
A hearing for the case is scheduled for February 10, 2025, before Judge Tiffany Foxworth-Roberts.
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