Tamara “Tammy” Bircumshaw, a 66-year-old Walmart greeter from Layton, Utah, died in July 2023 from sepsis linked to massive bedsores developed at Rocky Mountain Care in Clearfield. Her family alleges neglect caused stage-4 pressure ulcers the size of two iPhones (11x10x4 cm) during her 2022 rehab stay.
Injury Timeline
A Walmart back injury led to surgery, followed by hip deterioration requiring replacements; admitted July 2022 post-hip surgery, sores appeared in 11 days, delaying her second hip procedure as the surgeon refused due to the wound. She contracted MRSA a month later, with specialized wound care delayed until December 27, 2022, when three sores were diagnosed.
Lawsuit Allegations
The Bircumshaw family’s suit claims chronic understaffing caused neglect, despite $2.9 million in extra Medicaid funds; CMS data shows below-average staffing and $66,000+ fines. Son Kenny blames “total neglect,” noting her decline from cheery to miserable in pain; her final night, she whispered love to her grandson before dying.
Facility Response
Rocky Mountain Care declined comment due to the ongoing lawsuit when contacted by media. Lawyer Barry Toone seeks accountability for funding use and resident care standards.
