An Illinois man, a retired firefighter and Marine veteran, remains hospitalized more than a year after allegedly suffering catastrophic health complications from contaminated raw oysters. His attorneys announced a lawsuit on his behalf, claiming the incident caused permanent brain injuries.
Joe Belgio was celebrating with family at Gibsons Steakhouse in Oak Brook in June of last year when he consumed raw oysters, according to the lawsuit. His fiancé, Melanie Stayer, stated that their daughter was 5 months old at the time of the celebration. Belgio has been hospitalized ever since.
According to attorney Scott O'Sullivan, Belgio's condition rapidly deteriorated. He experienced cardiac arrests, leading to a loss of consciousness for at least eight minutes. He was revived by the fire department but has remained hospitalized. The lawsuit states that doctors identified several pathogens associated with shellfish contamination after screening Belgio.
O'Sullivan said the resulting injuries have left Belgio with severe, long-term impairments, including significant brain damage and minimal cognitive capacity, necessitating lifelong care. He is expected to be bedridden for the remainder of his life.
A spokesperson for Gibsons Oak Brook disputed the allegations, stating that there have been no other reported cases of illness and that their internal investigation found no evidence the establishment caused Belgio's condition. The company expressed confidence that a thorough legal process will support their conclusion.
The lawsuit also names Supreme Lobster and Seafood Company as a defendant. The company has not yet responded to a request for comment.
Stayer described Belgio as a man dedicated to service, highlighting his past as a firefighter and Marine. She noted the irony that after serving in dangerous roles, he sustained life-altering injuries in what was intended to be a celebratory family meal.
Former colleagues from Belgio's fire department are supporting his family through fundraising efforts to help with his ongoing recovery and care.