Narooma woman Kim Clothier has taken legal action against Moruya doctor Chris Fenn after the incident led to her being placed in a medically induced coma.

In emotional testimony last week, Ms Clothier also told the court she had asked friends to take her children from the vicinity because she didn’t want them to see her die.

Held at the Bega Court House last week before His Honour Judge Williams in the NSW District Court Civil Jurisdiction, the case also involved Greater Southern Area Health Service, represented by barrister Jackie Sandfard.

In his opening statement the barrister acting for Ms Clothier, Graham Little, said his client had been treated for dehydration, was in a coma for four days and suffered a cerebral oedema.

At one stage under questioning from the barrister representing Dr Fenn, Michael Windsor, Ms Clothier became emotional and told the court her lips were swollen, her tongue was swollen, her legs were cold and she had an excruciating headache.

“I thought I was going to die,” she said.

Questions from Mr Windsor centred on pre-race briefings at the Narooma Surf Lifesaving Club and Ms Clothier’s medical history.

On occasions Mr Windsor’s questioning led to heated clashes between the barristers and interjections from Judge Williams, who told Mr Windsor to move on and not rehash testimony.

“If you’re expecting to rely on the answers it won’t go far with me,” Judge Williams said.

“If this is an advocacy tactic then you won’t go far with me.”

The result of the case could have a bearing on the future of the marathon with organisers saying earlier this year they will have to look closely at medical support for the event.

For the 2010 event which begins in January and will see up to 35 surfboat crews row from Batemans Bay to Eden, organisers have acquired the services of St John Ambulance.

However race director Bert Hunt said that for the first time in its 35-year history, the event would put a strain on local hospitals and ambulance services.

He said their biggest concern was the medical treatment that may be required during the event’s longest day, which sees competitors row from Bermagui to Tathra.

“(On a bad day) we could have as many as 20 people being treated for hypothermia,” he said.

The case continues next Friday in Sydney where it is believed further evidence from doctors will be given and final submissions made.