FL S0026

University of South Florida directed to pay Joseph G. Donahey, Jr. $2 million from its Health Sciences Center self-insurance fund for injuries sustained during spine surgery on January 11, 1999 that resulted in total blindness.

University of South Florida directed to pay Tena Donahey $1 million from the same self-insurance fund for economic losses and loss of consortium resulting from her husband's injuries.

Combined $3 million payment is in addition to the $200,000 maximum statutory liability already paid under Florida's sovereign immunity law, conditioned on the Donaheys' release not preventing legislative relief.

Total compensation from all sources (statutory payment plus this act) constitutes sole compensation for all present and future claims arising from the surgery.

Attorney's fees, lobbying fees, costs, and similar expenses related to the claim may not exceed 25 percent of the total amount awarded under the act.