You’ve likely heard about the lawsuits surrounding the use of Roundup weed killer. The herbicide contains a chemical called glyphosate, which is used to kill grasses and weeds. Many people who have used this herbicide have suffered negative health effects, including cancer. 

Rightfully, some agricultural workers and others who have used Roundup and experienced negative health effects have successfully sued the makers of the product, getting the financial compensation they deserve to manage their pain, suffering, and medical expenses. 

Many people who have suffered from cancer and other health issues after the use of Roundup are frustrated to learn that the company continues to issue statements saying that Roundup weed killer is safe.

Here, we’ll explore some of the lawsuits against Bayer AG (parent company of Monsanto), the company that makes Roundup weed killer. 

Roundup Weed Killer Lawsuits

Alva and Alberta Pilliod vs. Bayer AG

In 2018, the Pilliod couple was awarded $86.7 million after a jury decided that Roundup weed killer was the culprit behind both of them developing cancer, according to The Washington Post. The Pilliods are in the 70s and were both diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma — Alberta’s cancer developed in her brain, while Alva’s developed in his bones. The couple used about a gallon of Roundup weed killer each week for more than three decades to take care of four residential properties. Thankfully, both Alva and Alberta are now in remission from their respective cancers. The jury in the Pilliod’s case also found that Monsanto — the company that developed and distributed Roundup weed killer and is currently owned by Bayer AG — attempted to bury the truth about Roundup, negatively affecting the safety of people exposed to the product.  

Edwin Hardeman vs. Bayer AG

In 2019, California resident Edwin Hardeman was awarded $80 million after it was determined that the use of Roundup weedkiller was a significant factor in the development of his non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Hardeman used Roundup to maintain the landscaping on his 56-acre property for more than 20 years. Following the ruling in Hardeman’s favor, Bayer continued to claim that Roundup is a safe product and that its main ingredient, glyphosate, is not a carcinogen. 

Dewayne “Lee” Johnson vs. Monsanto

In a landmark case against Monsanto, California man Dewayne “Lee” Johnson was awarded $289 million after suing the company. After years of using Roundup in his career as a school groundskeeper, Johnson developed lesions all over his body, which were later diagnosed as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Johnson’s physicians deemed his cancer terminal. His lawyers alleged that not only did Monsanto fail Mr. Johnson by causing his cancer — they also failed millions of consumers by failing to warn them about the potential effects of using the herbicide. 

Donnetta Stephens vs. Monsanto

California woman Donnetta Stephens is currently in the midst of a trial against Monsanto. Like other defendants, Stephens believes that her use of Roundup weed killer contributed to her diagnosis of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Stephens’ case was expedited due to her perpetual pain and issues with her cognition and memory. Recently, toxicologist and expert witness William Sawyer testified that the use of Roundup directly contributed to the development of Ms. Stephens’ cancer. 

Family of Thomas Walsh vs. Bayer AG

Thomas Walsh, a groundskeeper and superintendent at a golf course in Pennsylvania, died 13 years ago, and his family believes his death was due to his use of Roundup weed killer at work. Walsh’s family maintains that Thomas had no preexisting health issues before he was diagnosed with cancer. When he passed away from leukemia, he was 56 years old. In November of 2021, a judge ruled that the trial against Bayer AG would move forward, potentially awarding the family of Thomas Walsh compensation related to Thomas Walsh’s death.

To stay up-to-date on this case and see more recent developments, follow along here.

Have You Or A Loved One Been Affected By Roundup Weed Killer?

If you or someone you love used Roundup weed killer and were later diagnosed with cancer, or experienced other effects that you suspect may be related to your use of Roundup, it’s important that you talk with a professional who can help you figure out whether you have a viable case. Our free case evaluators are here to help. Reach out to us today to provide information about you or your family’s experience with Roundup, and we’ll be able to advise you on next steps.