John Siko, a Korean War Navy veteran and resident of Fort Myers, FL, has released a powerful and eye-opening book, "Anatomy of a Wrongful Death Lawsuit." This compelling work documents his four-year struggle for justice following his wife's tragic death due to medical malpractice. Siko’s narrative provides a critical examination of the American judicial system and the formidable challenges faced by victims seeking redress.
In "Anatomy of a Wrongful Death Lawsuit," John Siko takes readers on a detailed journey through the complexities and obstacles encountered while seeking accountability from a healthcare provider. The book not only chronicles his wife’s suffering but also sheds light on Florida’s Sovereign Immunity Statutes, which often deter victims from pursuing justice by capping potential damages. Siko’s story is a poignant educational tool, revealing the harsh realities of holding negligent parties accountable.
At ninety-one years old, John Siko brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to his writing. A Korean War Navy veteran, Siko served three years on a destroyer, including two tours of duty in Korea. He also witnessed four atomic bomb detonations while his ship was assigned to tests conducted in the Marshall Islands in 1951. A graduate of Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Siko’s life journey is marked by resilience and a steadfast commitment to justice.
Siko wrote "Anatomy of a Wrongful Death Lawsuit" in real-time, capturing the immediate and raw emotions surrounding his wife’s ordeal. His aim is to educate Florida citizens about the state’s Sovereign Immunity Statutes, which create significant barriers for victims seeking compensation. The book stands as both a testament to his wife's pain and a call to action for legislative change.
“No matter how valid the plaintiff's lawsuit, Florida’s Sovereign Immunity Statutes and the defendant’s deep pockets will prevent the plaintiff from receiving redress to compensate for the plaintiff’s pain and suffering resulting from the defendant’s medical malpractice. This is a story about David versus Goliath, but in this story, Goliath had bigger stones,” says Siko. His book emphasizes the need for reform and the resilience required to challenge powerful institutions.
The narrative delves deep into Florida’s Sovereign Immunity Statutes, unraveling the intricacies of a legal system designed to discourage victims by limiting potential damages. It casts a glaring spotlight on a flawed healthcare system, where a Medicare facility, protected by these statutes, can prioritize profit over patient safety. Revelations such as Medicare’s astonishing $55,000 bill for treatments and the audacious theft of a valuable wedding ring from an elderly patient underscore the gravity of systemic failures.
John Siko’s "Anatomy of a Wrongful Death Lawsuit" is more than just a memoir; it is a clarion call for justice and legislative change. His firsthand account and unwavering dedication to his wife’s memory provide a unique and compelling perspective, urging readers to question the status quo and advocate for a more humane and just healthcare system.
About the Author
John Siko, born and raised in Elmira, NY, is a proud Korean War Navy veteran who served on a destroyer with two tours of duty in Korea. He witnessed four atomic bomb detonations during his service and later graduated from Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. Siko now resides in Fort Myers, FL, where he continues to advocate for justice and reform in the healthcare system. His book, "Anatomy of a Wrongful Death Lawsuit," is a testament to his resilience and dedication to making a positive impact on society.