Man's lung removed in cancer error
Updated on 11 August 2008
A firefighter who had a lung removed after being misdiagnosed with cancer has told how the error ruined his life.
Laurence Ball, 58, was told he had a tumour in his lung and needed surgery to remove the organ. But soon after the operation, doctors revealed to the father-of-four that he would not need chemotherapy - as he never had cancer in the first place.
Mr Ball, who was a firefighter for 31 years, claimed NHS Grampian had offered him no explanation or apology. He is now preparing a court action against the health board.
The former specialist industrial firefighter told how the mistake cost him his £50,000-a-year job and he is now unable to carry out any strenuous physical activity.
He said: "I have had an 80% reduction in my health. Before I was an operational firefighter. I could carry men up ladders and down ladders.
"I could take part in most dynamic activities imaginable. But now if I walk up a flight of stairs I have to stop and get my breath back."
He went on: "I'll never run again, they've stopped me flying. In regards to DIY, gardening and all the activities I used to do, I can't do any of these."
He gave up his job after the operation and his salary has been replaced by a smaller disability allowance.
A lawyer took his case to NHS Grampian but after an investigation health chiefs concluded there was no individual guilty of incompetence or negligence.
A spokesman for NHS Grampian said: "We are aware of this court action. However, the case is currently in the hands of the Central Legal Office, so it would be inappropriate for us to comment further."
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