The tragic story of Donna Kruzich, a 78-year-old Michigan woman who died after receiving a tainted steroid injection in 2012, is coming to a close as the operator of the pharmacy responsible is set to be sentenced for involuntary manslaughter.
Donna Kruzich and dozens of others across the U.S. fell ill and died due to contaminated steroids made by the New England Compounding Center in Massachusetts. The outbreak of fungal infections caused by the tainted steroids led to widespread illness and death, with more than 700 people affected in 20 states.
Barry Cadden, the operator of the pharmacy, is already serving a 14 1/2-year sentence for federal crimes related to the outbreak. Now, he faces sentencing for involuntary manslaughter in Michigan, the only state to charge him in any deaths related to the tainted steroids.
While some families affected by the tragedy support the plea agreement reached with Cadden, others, like Michael Kruzich, whose mother was a victim, feel that justice has not been fully served. Kruzich expressed disappointment that Cadden may not face additional time in custody.
The case highlights the importance of oversight and safety in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in compounding pharmacies like the New England Compounding Center. The tragedy serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences when proper protocols are not followed, and profits are prioritized over human lives.