The respondent's late sister consulted the appellant doctor about a breast lump.
The doctor performed a biopsy, found cancer, but failed to inform the patient or arrange follow-up care.
Years later, the patient died of generalized cancer.
The Supreme Court of Canada rejected the application of the 'loss of chance' theory to medical malpractice in Quebec civil law, holding that traditional rules of causation apply.
However, the Court found the doctor liable for the patient's psychological suffering and diminished quality of life caused by the failure to inform and follow up, awarding $17,500 in damages.
