In a lawsuit that could reshape the standards of care in nursing homes, a Florida resident has taken legal action against a prominent healthcare facility for alleged negligence and violation of resident rights. Shirley Brennan filed a complaint on March 18, 2025, in the Circuit Court of the Sixth Judicial Circuit in Pinellas County, Florida, against Countryside Blvd Opco, LLC, doing business as Aspire at Countryside.
The case centers around allegations that during her residency at Aspire at Countryside, Brennan suffered from severe neglect resulting in infections, malnutrition, and dehydration. According to the complaint filed by Brennan's attorneys from Ford, Dean & Rotundo, P.A., the defendant failed to provide adequate care as mandated by Chapter 400 of Florida Statutes. The plaintiff accuses the nursing home of not developing an adequate care plan or properly monitoring her health condition. "As a direct result of Aspire at Countryside’s acts and omissions," states the complaint, "Shirley Brennan suffered development and deterioration of infections and malnutrition."
Brennan's lawsuit highlights several specific grievances under Florida Statute §400.022 concerning residents' rights. These include accusations that the facility failed to prevent mental and physical abuse and did not comply with regulations set forth by the Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services. The complaint further alleges that staff failed to notify family members or physicians about significant changes in Brennan's health status.
The plaintiff is seeking compensatory damages for various forms of suffering including bodily injury, pain and suffering, mental anguish, and medical expenses. In addition to these damages, Brennan demands prejudgment interest and a jury trial on all issues deemed triable by right. Her legal team reserves the right to amend their complaint to include punitive damages if necessary.
Representing Shirley Brennan is William A. Dean from Ford, Dean & Rotundo, P.A., while details about defense counsel remain undisclosed at this time. The case is being presided over under Case Number 25-001318-CI in Pinellas County Circuit Court.