The attorney representing the family of a two-year-old struck by a foul ball during a Houston Astros game last season says the girl has suffered permanent brain damage similar to the effects of a stroke.
Richard Mithoff said areas of the brain affected include those in which injuries can lead to seizures, loss of sensation and loss of spatial awareness, adding that other potential effects include periods of unresponsiveness and staring spells, frequent headaches and night terrors.
“She remains subject to seizures and is on medication and will be, perhaps, for the rest of her life," Mithoff told the Houston Chronicle, as reported by Sports Illustrated.
The girl's skull was fractured May 29 when a line drive off the bat of the Chicago Cubs' Albert Almora Jr. struck her in the back of her head while seated at Minute Maid Park. For the coming 2020 Major League Baseball season, all 30 teams will incorporate in their ballparks extended infield grandstand netting.
Related: Netting Needs Highlighted After Child Hit by Foul Ball
Doctors so far have not been able to determine if the child has cognitive deficits because of the skull fracture and brain injury. “She is able to continue with much of her routine as a girl her age would do, but her parents have to be particularly vigilant — as they are,” said Mithoff, who has not initiated legal action against the Astros. However, he has advised them that he represents the family of the child.
