Transgender Laird Drops NHS Lawsuit Over Surgery Disputes

Samantha Kane, the transgender laird known as Lady Carbisdale, has withdrawn legal proceedings against University College London Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. The case stemmed from the trust's initial refusal to perform a third gender reassignment surgery in 2017. Kane alleged this refusal led to a subsequent, reportedly "botched" private surgery in Serbia, followed by further refusal of treatment for complications.

Kane, who had previously undergone two gender surgeries and reversals, pursued the lawsuit alleging negligence, discrimination, and a breach of human rights. While initially seeking £162,000 in compensation, the laird emphasized the action was primarily about achieving justice and ensuring patient safety. Assurances regarding improvements by the trust have now led to the withdrawal of the claim.

Following the resolution, Kane expressed satisfaction that her concerns were addressed and highlighted the trust's £3 million funding for patient safety research. The laird also offered to bring Scottish gifts from Carbisdale Castle to patients at London hospitals over the Christmas period, underscoring a focus on broader community well-being.