
An Indiana woman's family claims she was wheeled out of a hospital in active labor, forcing her to give birth on the side of a road.
Relatives of Mercedes Wells told ABC station WLS in Chicago she was discharged from Franciscan Health Crown Point Hospital in Crown Point on Sunday, as hospital staff told her to go home to wait for her labor to progress. She then gave birth eight minutes later on the side of the road, the family told the affiliate.
Wells' sister-in-law, Cherise Thompson, confirmed to WLS that Wells' husband Leon delivered the baby in their truck.
"He grabbed, like, a blanket, and then, put the baby on Mercedes' chest, my niece on her chest, and drove the rest of the way to the hospital, to Munster Community," Thompson told WLS.
"Mercedes begged her. She begged her," Thompson alleges about the nurse working with Wells, according to WLS. "She said, 'I'm really in active labor. I can feel it, contractions as I walk. I mean my pain. I'm telling you; I can feel it.' And she just ignored her."
An attorney for Mercedes Wells and her family did not immediately respond to ABC News' request for comment.
Husband speaks out after wife dies from serious complication in childbirth
In a statement, Franciscan Health Crown Point President and CEO Raymond Grady told ABC News that the hospital is investigating the incident.
“We are grateful to learn from online and media reports that both mother and child are reportedly doing well," Grady said. "We understand the concern this has raised. The video is just one part of the information we are reviewing as part of a thorough investigation into this alleged incident."
He added, "While patient privacy laws make it difficult for us to comment more deeply, it is important to note that the videos and the narrative surrounding them do not accurately represent Franciscan Health Crown Point’s Catholic healthcare ministry’s values, which include respect for life, compassionate concern and Christian stewardship. Our goal is to make everyone who walks through our doors feel the love of Christ through our actions."
Only 25% of moms in US report 'excellent' mental health, marking an alarming decline
The hospital says they aim to give patients personalized birthing services, according to their website.
"At Franciscan Health, our team of obstetricians and medical staff provides you and your baby with the best care possible during and after pregnancy," the hospital's website reads. "We provide a personalized approach to delivery where you and your obstetrician discuss a birth plan and expectations."
LATEST POSTS
- 1
Health officials report 14 Legionnaires' disease cases in Florida, gym connection suspected - 2
'Stranger Things' character guide: The nerds, the newcomers and the rest of the Season 5 cast - 3
21 Incredibly Interesting Contemplations To Observe Consistently - 4
Top Smoothie Flavor: What's Your Mix? - 5
25 Most Beautiful Villages in France You Can Actually Visit
This Huge Ocean Beast Shifts Sharks’ Evolutionary Timeline
Ukraine confirms defence and energy ministers at second attempt
Washington resident is infected with a different type of bird flu
Gilead's new HIV prevention shot added to CVS's drug coverage lists, CEO says
Famous Restroom Beautifying Styles For 2024
She was the ultimate '90s fitness influencer. Now she's delivering Uber Eats — and rebuilding her life.
Outside Lovers' Decision: Favored Climbing Rucksacks
Grasping the Elements of Medical caretaker Pay rates: Factors That Shape Your Pay
Banks for High Fixed Store Rates: Augment Your Investment funds












