Parents sue baby formula company after infant diagnosed with botulism

Richmond, KY – A couple has filed a lawsuit after their infant daughter was diagnosed with an infection they attribute to ByHeart baby formula. Piper Everett, four months old, exhibited neurological symptoms, including a loss of her gag reflex, following consumption of the formula.

Hanna and Michael Everett allege in their legal complaint that Piper was a healthy baby prior to using ByHeart’s product. They purchased the formula based on advertisements touting it as a high-quality alternative to traditional formulas.

Soon after starting the formula, Piper developed constipation and exhibited alarming symptoms. Emergency room doctors diagnosed her with infant botulism, and health investigators confirmed she was part of a multistate outbreak linked to ByHeart formula.

Hanna Everett recalled her frustration as she witnessed her daughter’s suffering. She initially believed ByHeart’s formula would be similar to breast milk.

Piper’s condition deteriorated, leading to lethargy and an inability to feed. On November 9, health professionals at Kentucky Children’s Hospital provided her with an antitoxin after confirming the botulism diagnosis.

The complaint indicates that the Kentucky Department of Public Health traced the infection back to a recalled batch of ByHeart formula. At least 15 infants across 12 states have been reported ill due to the same issue.

Hanna Everett expressed her distress over the incident on social media, noting that Piper is showing signs of improvement. The family continues to navigate ongoing medical challenges and therapies.

ByHeart has not responded to requests for comments as of Thursday.

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