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\i\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 Custodio, et al., v. Boonprakong, et al., }{\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 1999 Guam 5, Opinion\tab Page }{\field{\*\fldinst {
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\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 IN THE SUPREME COURT OF GUAM}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
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}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 as Guardian Ad Litem for Teresita S. Custodio,}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
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\par }{\insrsid141609 Plaintiffs-Appellants,}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
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\par }{\insrsid141609 Defendants-Appellees.}{\insrsid12263737 
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\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 CUSTODIO, individually and
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\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 an invalid; ESTRELLA C. HERNANDEZ,}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
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\par Teresita S. Custodio, an invalid; and}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 BENJAMIN A. CUSTODIO,}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
\par Plaintiffs-Appellants,
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\par KWAN-MING}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 CHEN AND ASSOCIATES,}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
\par Defendants-Appellees.
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{\b\insrsid141609\charrsid141609 and CVA97-042}{\b\insrsid141609 
\par }{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609 Superior Court Case No.}{\b\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  CV0207-95}{\insrsid141609 
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\b\insrsid141609 
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Filed: February 18, 1999
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\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Appeal from the Superior Court of Guam
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam
\par Argued and Submitted on February 18, 1998}{\insrsid12263737 
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\par }{\ul\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Attorneys for Plaintiffs-Appellants}{\insrsid141609 :}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
\par David J. Lujan, Esq.
\par Randall L.K. M. Rosenberg, Esq.
\par 477 Hernan Cortes Ave., Suite 227
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910
\par 
\par }{\ul\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Attorney for Defendants-Appellees:}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
\par Gary D. Hull, Esq.
\par Pacific News Bldg, Suite 903
\par 238 Archbishop F.C. Flores Street
\par Hag\'e5t\'f1a, Guam 96910}{\insrsid12263737 
\par }{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 BEFORE: PETER C. SIGUENZA, Chief Justice; JANET HEALY WEEKS}{\cs15\super\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\ql \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 \chftn }{\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 
Justice Janet Healy Weeks declines to sign the opinion of the court.  Subsequent to deliberation and decision of the panel in this matter, Justice Weeks was referred to Dr. Chen for medical advice and treatment.}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
 and BENJAMIN J.F. CRUZ, Associate Justices
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 SIGUENZA, CJ.:
\par }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [1]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Appellants seek review of the trial court}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s decision granting summary judgment in favor of the Appellees.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 They assert their medical malpractice suit is not barred by the statute of limitations.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Alternatively, appellants argue that the statute of limitations was tolled by the insanity exception.}{\insrsid12263737 
\par }{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [2]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab We disagree.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Based on the facts before this court and the applicable law, we deny Appellants}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  request for relief and, accordingly, we affirm the trial court}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s decision.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 I.}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\insrsid141609\charrsid141609 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [3]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab On February 7, 1994, Teresita Custodio entered the Guam Memorial Hospital to undergo a hysterectomy.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Fi
ve days after Dr. Vallop Boonprakong performed the surgery, Ms. Custodio was diagnosed with a perforated bowel which, apparently, was sustained during the operation.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
As a result, Ms. Custodio developed severe adverse complications and experienced multi-systems failures.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
She was admitted to the critical care unit of Guam Memorial Hospital and underwent additional surgical and medical procedures in response to her condition.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [4]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab By mid-March of 1994, Ms. Custodio}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s condition improved and, as a result, she was transferred from the critical care unit to the regular surgical ward.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
However, on March 27, 1994, she started experiencing seizures.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Dr. Kwan-Ming Chen, a neurologist, was then called in for consultation.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Dr. Chen diagnosed and treated Ms. Custodio for status epilepticus, a condition of prolonged unresponsiveness with intermittent seizure activity, which, in this case, lasted from 11 to 17 hours.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Later during her hospital stay, Dr. Chen also advised Ms. Custodio and her sister, Victoria S. Custodio, that the brain damage suffered was permanent.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Her brain damage included cortical blindness, visual hallucinations, chronic vertigo, and memory loss.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Eventually, Dr. Chen}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }
{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 pronounced Ms. Custodio permanently disabled.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [5]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Dr. Chen assumed Ms. Custodio}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s primary neurological care starting on May 16, 1994.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 However, Dr. Chen was not the sole physician treating Ms. Custodio, nor was his
 treatment of her continuous.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 From November 1994 until April-May 1995, Ms. Custodio saw other physicians in Hawaii for her health matters.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 After her return, Dr. Chen resumed treatment of Ms. Custodio in May 1995 lasting until February 17, 1996.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [6]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab On November 23, 1994, the Superior Court ordered the appointment of both Victoria Custodio and Estrella Hernandez as Guardians Ad Litem for Teresita Custodio (hereinafter }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Appellants}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 ).}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 The petition for guardianship stated}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
that Teresita S. Custodio suffered severe brain and physical damages to her person . . .Teresita is unable to care for herself in that she has been physically handicapped by loss of vision, memory and motor, to name a few.}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Excerpt of Record, Pg. 75.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [7]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab A lawsuit for negligence was filed on February 3, 1995 against defendant Boonprakong, several other physicians, and other non-physician defendants.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Almost two years later, on December 2, 1996, a complaint was filed against Dr. Chen for malpractice.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\ql \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 \chftn }{\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 
The suits were later consolidated}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 . }}}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Appellants assert that Dr. Chen was not named in the original suit because they
 were unaware of his conduct.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Appellants further maintain that they became aware of Dr. Chen}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s negligent conduct in February 1996.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 They met with another neurologist, Dr. Steele, who concluded that Dr. Chen}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
s treatment was below the standard of care in Guam and that his acts caused some or all of the brain damage.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [8]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab  Dr. Chen filed a Motion to Dismiss asserting the case was untimely under the statute of limitations.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
The Superior Court heard the matter on April 8, 1997 and rendered a Decision and Order, on April 30, 1997, granting the motion.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
An amended Decision and Order was later issued on June 5, 1997 but had no bearing on the court}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
s prior decision.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [9]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab A Rule 54(b) certification was granted on August 15, 1997; and later, a Final Judgment in Superior Court Case CV1607-96 was entered on August 26, 1997.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 A notice of appeal was then timely filed.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 II.}{\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11679586 {\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [10]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab We first address Appellants}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
 contention that this court is absolutely bound to accept the construction of Guam statutes by courts of another jurisdiction, namely California, from where Guam has modelled many of its statutes.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Throughout their brief, Appellants insist that Guam law requires this court to rely upon California case authority.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [11]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab We reject Appellants}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
 mistaken belief that we are obligated to adopt California precedent.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
While it is a generally accepted rule of statutory interpretation that a jurisdiction adopting a statute from another accepts the construction placed on it by the original jurisdiction, }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
see Sumitomo Construction v. Zhong Ye, Inc.}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 1997 Guam 8, }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
 7 (citing Sutherland}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s Stat. Const. }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  52.01 (5}{\super\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 th}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  Ed.)); this court will not blindly adopt another jurisdiction}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s interpretation on this basis alone.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
To do otherwise would be a sacrifice of our own reasoned analysis and independent thinking.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Accordingly, we will disregard another jurisdiction}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s construction if it is ill reasoned, based on antiquated grounds, or simply inapplicable to Guam.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 We will likewise disregard previous authority if it is at odds with local laws as a whole or Guam}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s applicable customs.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 See People v. Quenga}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 1997 Guam 6; }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Sumitomo}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 1997 Guam 8.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 III.}{\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11679586 {\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [12]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Pursuant to Guam R. Civ. P. 12(b)(6), if matters outside the pleadings are presented to and not
 excluded by the court, the motion shall be treated as one for summary judgment and disposed of as in Rule 56.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Addressing motions for summary judgment, Rule 56 states, in pertinent part:}{
\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid141609 {\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 The judgment sought shall be rendered forthwith if the pleadings, de
positions, answers to interrogatories, and admissions on file, together with the affidavits, if any, show that there is no genuine issue as to any material fact and that the moving party is entitled to a judgment as a matter of law.}{\insrsid141609 

\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 . . .}{\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid141609 {\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 When a motion f
or summary judgment is made and supported as provided in this rule, an adverse party may not rest upon the mere allegations or denials of the adverse party}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s pleading, but the adverse party}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
s response, by affidavits or as otherwise provided in this rule, must set forth specific facts showing that there is a genuine issue for trial. }{\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\insrsid141609 
\par }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Guam R. Civ. P. 56 (c) & (e).}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [13]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab This court previously discussed the standards for summary judgments and wrote the following:}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid141609 {\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 To grant summary judgment, there must not be a }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 genuine issue.}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 There is a genuine issue, if there is }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 sufficient evidence}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  which establishes a factual dispute requiring resolutions by a fact-finder.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 However, the dispute must be as to a }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
material fact.}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 A }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 62 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 material fact}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  is one that is relevant to an element of a claim or defense and whose existence might affect the outcome of the suit. . . .}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Disputes over irrelevant or unnecessary facts will not prelude a grant of summary judgment.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0\pararsid141609 {\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 If the movant ca
n demonstrate that there are no genuine issues of material fact, the non-movant cannot merely rely on allegations contained in the complaint, but must produce at least some significant probative evidence tending to support the complaint.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 In addition, the court must view the evidence and draw inferences in the light most favorable to the nonmovant.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 The court}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
s ultimate inquiry is to determine whether the specific fact set forth by the nonmoving party, coupled with undisputed background or contextual facts, are such that a rational or reasonable jury might return a verdict in its favor based on that evidence.}
{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Put simply, the question is whether there is a dispute as to a fact which is relevant to those claims dismissed by the trial court.}{\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\insrsid141609 
\par }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Iizuka Corp. v. Kawasho Int}{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 l (Guam) Inc.}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 1997 Guam 10, }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 38 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  7-8 (citations omitted).}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 With the above standards in mind, we now address the merits of the appeal.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 IV.}{\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11679586 {\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [14]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab 
In order to recover in a medical malpractice action, an individual must initiate suit within one year from the date when the injury is first discovered.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 See}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  7 GCA }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  11308 (1996).}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 However, the date for commencing such action may be tolled under certain limited circumstances.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Guam law states that if a person entitled to bring an action is insane at the time the cause of action accrued, then the time of such disability is not counted as part of the time limited for the commencement of the action.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609 
 }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 7 GCA }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  11404 (1996).}{\cs15\super\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
\chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 \chftn }{
\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 7 GCA }{\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f172\fs20}}}{\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 
 11404 was originally adopted in 1953 as section 352 of the Guam Code of Civil Procedure which, in turn, was based on California Code of Civil Procedure, section 352).  }}}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Appellants argue that Teresita Custodio is insane for purposes of her malpractice suit and thus the one year filing requirement was tolled.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 We disagree.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [15]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab We hold that insanity, for purposes of Guam}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s tolling statute, turns on the determinative issue of whether a person has demonstrated a severe mental impairment that effects his or her ability to comprehend rights or acts that he would otherwise understand.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Absent this ability to comprehend, the time in which to commence a cause of action is tolled until the disability ends.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Our interpretation is not only appropriate as to Guam}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
s statute, but our pronouncement also mirrors that of a majority of jurisdictions with similar statutes, including California. }{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [16]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab California courts have found an individual }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 insane}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  for purposes of the tolling statute when}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 an individual is incapable of caring for his property or transacting business or understanding the nature or effects of his acts.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Pearl v. Pearl}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 177 Cal. 303, 177 P. 845 (1918).}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Although appearing quite broad, a close review of California decisions utilizing and explaining the }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Pearl}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  definition reveals that its application is dependent on a menta
l condition affecting the plaintiff}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s abilities to comprehend.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 For example, the definition of insanity was more fully described as }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
a condition of mental derangement as actually to bar the sufferer from comprehending rights which he is otherwise bound to know . . . .}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}
{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Gottesman v. Simon}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 169 Cal. App. 2d 494, 498- 499, 337 P.2d 906, 909 (1959)(quoting 54 C. J. S. Limitations of Actions, }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  242 ).}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
The person claiming under the exception must show the condition of mind contemplated by the statute, and not other conditions which would extend the statute}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s intent.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Id.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
See also Feeley v. Southern Pac. Trans. Co.}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 234 Cal. App. 3d 949, 285 Cal. Rptr. 666 (1991)(describing insanity as a }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 mental }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
condition rendering the plaintiff incapable).}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Thus, the conditions set forth in }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Pearl}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  are actually indiv
idual tests that measure an individual}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
s ability to comprehend the nature of various events surrounding him.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\b\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [17]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Although}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 the statutory provisions of other jurisdictions are varied in exact defin
ition, they have been uniformly interpreted in a manner that links insanity with a mental condition affecting the ability to comprehend or understand.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 See Peach v. Peach}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 218 N.E. 2d 504 (Ill. App. Ct. 1966); }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Adkins v. Nabors Alaska Drilling, Inc.}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 609 P.2d 15, 23 (Alaska 1980); }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Barnett v. Ashley}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 81 S.E. 2d 11, 13 (Ga. App. 1954); }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Valisano v. Chicago & N.W. Ry. Co.}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 225 N.W. 607, 608 (Mich. 1949); }{
\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Roberts v. Stith}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 383 P.2d 14 (Okl. 1963). }{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [18]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Ms. Custodio is not insane for purposes of section 11404.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
The Appellants have not presented evidence showing a demonstrable mental condition affecting her ability to understand and comprehend.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
In fact, the record before the court shows the opposite.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 The report of Dr. Taniguchi, a neurosurgeon 
consulted by the Appellants to reexamine Ms. Custodio and review her medical records, observes she was }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 alert, pleasant, and in no distress}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
during his examination of her.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Excerpt Record, Pg. 39.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Dr. Taniguchi}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
s declaration further indicates that when he informed Ms. Custodio and her sisters as to the causes of her condition and symptoms, and their permanence, Ms. Custodio was alert and well aware of what was going on around her and what he was telling her.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Excerpt of Record, Pg. 35.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Another physician consulted on this matter, Dr. Kritchevsky, observed Teresita in a similar state - awake and alert, but quiet.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Excerpt of Record, Pg. 50.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Dr. Evelyn Tecoma, after performing her neurological consultation, indicated that Ms. Custodio}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [c]omprehension appeared within normal limits}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  although her language was not expressive.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Excerpt of Record, Pg. 46.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Finally, even her primary care physician, Dr. Benjamin Sison, indicates he informed Ms. Custodio and her sister of the permanence of her condition and, notably, they both understood what was being told to them.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Excerpt of Record, Pgs. 119-120.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Accordingly, we reject the claim of insanity.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Ms. Custodio has not shown a mental condition impairing her ability to comprehend or understand the nature of her acts or rights.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 V.}{\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11679586 {\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [19]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab 
Notwithstanding our finding that Ms. Custodio is not insane, we must determine the effect, if any, of the lower court order appointing the guardians ad litem.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Appellants argue that their appointment as guardians ad litem for Teresita Custodio is conclusive of her insanity and, in and of itself, sufficiently tolls the statute of limitations.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [20]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Guam law requires that a party to an action who is either: 1) an infant, 2) insane or 3) incompetent, be represented by a guardian or guardian ad litem.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 7 GCA }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  12104 (1993).}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 By listing those persons for whom a guardian should be appointed, our legislature clearly differentiated between the terms }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 insane}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  and }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 incompetent}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  and provided Guam courts with options upon which an appointment may be based. }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 See Wade v. Busby}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
, 66 Cal. App. 2d 700, 702-703, 152 P.2d 754, 755 (Cal. Dist. Ct. App. 1944) (describing the terms insane and incompetent as not necessarily convertible because a person may be incompetent by reason of insanity or from some other cause).}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 See}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 generally People of Territory of Guam v. Guiang}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
, Crim Case No.84-00076A, 1986 WL 68514 (D. Guam App. Div. February 20, 1986)(explaining that the words of a statute must be given effect). In order to give effect to the legislature}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s distinction, we must examine the petition requesting the guardianship.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 See Gottesman}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 169 Cal. App. 2d at 500, 337 P.2d at 910}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 (commenting that only after an adjudication of mental incapacity would further evidence of such not be required).}
{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [21]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab A review of the petition and order appointing the Custodio sisters as guardians ad litem}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
supports an appointment based on incompetency, not insanity.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 The language of the petition indicates that Teresita is }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 physically handicapped by loss of vision, memory, and motor, to name a few.}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Excerpt of Record, Pg. 75 (emphasis added).}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
This language is a clear indication of incompetency due to her physical disabilities and not, as Appellants characterize, an adjudication of insanity.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
More importantly, nothing in the petition or order supports the proposition that the Superior Court purported to adjudicate the sanity of Teresita Custodio.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Those}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 assertions that would evidence a mental condition amounting to insanity are noticeably absent.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [22]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Even if this court were to read the petition in a manner supporting the appointment of the guardians ad litem based on an adjudication of insanity, we do not agree such an ap
pointment should toll the statute of limitations until the disability in question is lifted.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Instead, we hold that the statute of limitations will begin to run upon the appointment of either a guardian or a guardian ad litem.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 In so deciding, we recognize
 the general rule appears to be that the appointment of a guardian for a mentally insane person will not cause the time period to initiate a suit to run.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 See}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  Annotation - Limitations, 86 A. L. R. 2d 965 }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  2-3 (1962).}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 However, for the reasons that follow, we are not persuaded this rule should be adopted on Guam.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [23]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Appellants argue that California precedent binds this court}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt
\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s interpretation of Guam statute and, consequently, we must adopt the holdings of both }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Gottesman}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
, 169 Cal. App. 2d at 501, 337 P.2d at 910-911 and }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Tzolov v. Int}{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 l Jet Leasing, Inc.}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 232 Cal. App.3d 117, 283 Cal. Rptr. 314 (1991) that the limitations period will not run upon the appointment of either a guardian or guardian ad litem.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Essentially, the state of California decided that a judicial determination of mental incompetency, which results in the appointme
nt of a guardian or a guardian ad litem, is conclusive of the disability.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Gottesman}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 169 Cal. App. 2d at 501, 337 P.2d at 910-911.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 The appointments have the effect of tolling the statute of limitations and, as a matter of law, will continue to toll the r
unning until such time as the court terminates the guardianship or the relationship is substantially abandoned.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Id.}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  at 502, 337 P.2d at 910-911.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 In other words, an appointment will not start the running of the limitations period.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Thus, although the gua
rdian or guardian ad litem must protect the party}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
s cause of action, a failure to file within the statutory time does not prejudice the party}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
s right to file after the disability has been removed.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [24]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Although we recognize the policy behind California}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s decisions, there are other compelling interests requiring our consideration.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 A strong public policy exists that suits are}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }
{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 brought within a specific time period in order to avoid prejudice that comes from defending an otherwise stale claim.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 If this court were to adopt California
}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
s interpretations as to this particular issue, it is quite possible that the statute of limitations period will remain open for the lifetime of the plaintiff.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 See Tzolov, }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 232 Cal. App.3d at 120, 283 Cal. Rptr. at 316-317}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 (identifying contravening policy factors).}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 In addition, the California rule is also open to mischief as a party may take advantage of the situation by failing to obtain a timely termination of the guardianship.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [25]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab After considering both the public policy in bringing timely suits and th
e problems surrounding the California rule, we believe the more equitable remedy is to start the limitations period running anew upon appointment of a guardian based on a finding of insanity.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Thus, a party}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s cau
se of action is protected by an individual duty bound to do so and, simultaneously, effect is given to the policy of originating timely claims.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 VI.}{\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11679586 {\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [26]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Appellants next argue the one year statute of limitations period is subject to the discovery rule.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Because Appellants did not actually discover Dr. Chen}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s alleged negligence until February 1996, they maintain their filing suit ten months later is timely. }{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [27]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Guam statute provides a clear directive that a plaintiff must file a medical malpractice suit within one year from the date that}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 an injury is discovered or, at the outside, three years from the date of treatment.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain \ql \fi720\li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 
\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 \chftn }{\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 The statute of limitations applicable to a medical malpractice suit, found
 at 7 GCA }{\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 39 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 10}{\fldrslt\f172\fs20}}}{\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737  11308 (1994), reads as follows: 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 
\par }\pard \qj \li720\ri720\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin720\lin720\itap0 {\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 
An action to recover damages for injuries to the person arising from any medical, surgical, or dental treatment, omission or operation shall be commenced with[in] (si
c) one (1) year from the date when the injury is first discovered; provided, that such action shall be commenced within three (3) years from the date of treatment, omission}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737  }{
\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 or operation upon which the action is based.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737  
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 {\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 This specific provision was adopted 
by the Guam legislature via P.L. 13-116:3 on December 24, 1975.  The original language permitted the action to occur within four (4) years from the date of treatment, omission, or operation upon which the action is based.  However, the legislature adopted
 the current 3 year language on March 5, 1980 through P.L. 15-107. }}}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
The discovery rule builds upon the statute by delaying the accrual date of a cause of action until the plaintiff is aware of the injury and its negligent cause.}{\cs15\super\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \chftn {\footnote \pard\plain 
\ql \fi720\li0\ri0\sa240\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\cs15\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 \chftn }{\fs20\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12263737 
As a practical matter, the date of the discovery will generally be the same as the date the injury occurred.  }}}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Jolly v. Eli Lilly & Co.}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
, 44 Cal. 3d 1103, 1109, 751 P.2d 923, 926-927 (1988).}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Not only will a party be aware when he has actual knowledge, but he will be deemed to ha
ve knowledge when he could have reasonably discovered both the injury and the negligent cause through the exercise of reasonable diligence.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
In other words, the statute of limitations will begin to run when }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 the 
plaintiff suspects or should suspect that [his] injury was caused by wrongdoing, that someone has done something wrong to [him].}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Id. }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 at 1110, 751 P.2d at 927.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 A plaintiff}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
need not be aware of the specific facts necessary to establish the claim . . . . [o]nce the plaintiff has a suspicion of wrongdoing, and therefore an incentive to sue, [he] must decide whether to file suit or sit on [his] rights.}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Id. }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 at 1111, 751 P.2d at 928.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Ignorance of legally significant facts will not toll the statute of limitations.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Gutierrez v. Mofid}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 39 Cal. 3d 892, 898, 705 P.2d 886, 889 (1985).}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Equally significant, ignorance of the defendant}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL
 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s identity will not delay the period in which a suit must be filed.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Id.}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  at 899, 705 P.2d at 889.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 It is enough to start the period running that the injured party }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 65 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 has suffered appreciable harm and knows or suspects that professional blundering is its cause . . . .}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 64 \\f 
"WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Id.,}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 705 P.2d at 889.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Consequently, if a suspicion exists, the plaintiff cannot sit back and wait for the facts to find him as the burden of finding the facts falls upon his shoulders.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Jolly}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 44 Cal.3d at 1111, 751 P.2d at 928.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [28]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab We agree with the trial court}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s assessment of the facts in this case.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Under either a plain reading of the statute or pursuant to the discovery rule, the suit fails.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 The injuries occurred in March 1994 while the lawsuit against Dr. Chen was filed approximately two years and eight months later on December 2, 1996.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 The one year time limit set forth in section 11308 was not satisfied.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [29]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Likewise, applying the facts to the discovery rule cannot save Appellants cause of action.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
The injuries suffered by Ms. Custodio should have reasonably been discovered by the Appellants soon after her treatment by Dr. Chen on March 27, 1994.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Although Ms. Custodio entered Guam Memorial Hospital in February 1994 for a hysterectomy, she was otherwise healthy.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
After undergoing the operation, she consequently suffered a number of life threatening medical conditions requiring both additional surgery and medical treatment.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Subsequently, Ms. Custodio experienced a condition diagnosed as status epilepticus causing seizures and resulting in brain damage.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Upon discharge, Ms. Custodio left th
e hospital suffering from cortical blindness, visual hallucinations, chronic vertigo, memory loss, and depression.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 She was also told by Dr. Chen that her condition was permanent.}{
\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [30]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab These facts make it abundantly clear that the Appellants suffered an appreciable harm which they knew or should have reasonably known resulted from a negligent cause.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Ms. Custodio entered the hospital for a specific reason but exited with such severe injuries that she was left permanently disabled.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{
\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Under these circumstances, a reasonable prudent person would have a suspicion of negligent wrongdoing and, accordingly, Appellants are charged with constructive notice of the Ms. Custodio}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s injuries.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Consequently, the statute of limi
tations against Dr. Chen began to run in April 1994 after his treatment of Ms. Custodio in March of the same year.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [31]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Even if the Appellants could get past the above factual circumstances, the statute of limitations would have begun in January of 1995 and, accordingly, expire one year later.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 At that time, Appellants consulted with another physician for a second opinion.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Dr. Taniguchi, a neurological surgeon located in Hawaii, examined Ms. Custodio and reviewed her medical records from Guam.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
He informed both her and her sister of the causes of her injuries and that the condition was most certainly permanent.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Armed with 
this information, Appellants were placed on notice that a wrong was done to Ms. Custodio and that someone committed that wrong.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 It is irrelevant whether they knew}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Dr. Chen was the cause of the injury as the facts before them should have reasonable lead them to investigate whether his actions were also negligent. }{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [32]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab We therefore hold that the application of the discovery rule does not save the instant suit.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 VII.}{\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11679586 {\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [33]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Appellants next urge this court to adopt the California pronouncement that the statute
 of limitations will not run until the physician-patient relationship ends.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Greninger v. Fischer}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 81 Cal. App. 2d 549, 184 P.2d 694 (1947).}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Under this doctrine, while the physician-patient relationship continues, the patient will not ordinarily be put on notice of a physician}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst 
SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s negligent conduct.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Hundley v. St. Francis Hospital}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
, 161 Cal. App. 2d 800, 806, 327 P.2d 131, 135 (1958).}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 The rationale behind the rule appears to be that during the relationship, the p
hysician is in a position to urge upon the patient the prognosis that he will recover over time.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Huysman v. Kirsch}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
, 6 Cal. 2d 302, 309, 57 P.2d 908, 911 (1941).}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Thus, it would be inconsistent to expect that a patient would bring an action against his phy
sician for malpractice and, at the same time, continue relying upon his skill, judgment and advice.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Id.}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609  at 309, 57 P.2d at 911.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 This particular relationship, however, will not benefit a patient if the injury is discovered or through the use of reasonable diligence, should have been discovered.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\i\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Petrucci v. Heidenreich}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 , 43 Cal. App. 2d 561, 562, 111 P.2d 421 (1941). }{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }{\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [34]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab It is only necessary for us to point out our prior discussions regarding Ms. Custodio}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols"
 \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s injuries.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Appellants knew, or by reasonable diligence, should have known that the injuries sustained were caused by negligent acts.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Likewise, Ms. Custodio}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s subsequent examination by Dr. Taniguchi shows that she was not solely reliant upon Dr. Chen}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
{\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s skill, judgment, and treatment.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Dr. Taniguchi also advised that Ms. Custodio}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 s injuries were permanent.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609 
 }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Thus, Appellants were on notice that she had suffered injuries requiring investigation of all physicians involved.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
Consequently, we find no merit in the assertion that the time was tolled by way of the physician-patient relationship. }{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 VIII.}{\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11679586 {\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \qj \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [35]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab Finally, the Appellants contend that this court must adopt the continuous negligent treatment rule.}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Under such rule, Dr. Chen}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 {\field{\*\fldinst SYMBOL 61 \\f "WP TypographicSymbols" \\s 12}{\fldrslt\f172\fs24}}}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
s subsequent treatment of Ms. Custodio caused further brain damage and did not cease until February 1996.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
We decline to address this issue. The facts before the court do not lend themselves to an application of this particular doctrine.}{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 
The court will not permit Appellants to create a material issue of fact by submitting a subsequent affidavit contravening the earlier deposition testimony of their own expert.}{\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11679586 {\insrsid141609\charrsid11679586 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 IX.}{\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11679586 {\insrsid141609 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid141609 {\b\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 [36]}{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 \tab We hereby affirm the decision}{\insrsid11679586  of the Superior Court of Guam.}{\insrsid141609 
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11679586 {\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 BENJAMIN J.F. CRUZ\tab \tab \tab \tab }{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 PETER C. SIGUENZA
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11679586 {\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Associate Justice\tab \tab \tab \tab }{\insrsid141609\charrsid141609  }{\insrsid12263737\charrsid141609 Chief Justice}{
\insrsid141609\charrsid141609 
\par }}