As much as we all wish we could, we can’t just “jump to the last step.” Recognition is just step one. There are people suffering right now, daily. Our priority is not only to bring justice but we are one of an extremely rare few who are dedicated to push for real medical relief and recognition. The suffering these patients and families endure, in many cases, is unlivable. If liability protections end tomorrow (would not be retroactive btw) there still would not be legal cases that would win. Why? There is no published research (credible “official” recognition of these injuries) that would hold up in a court of law. Step 1: recognition (you cannot address what you do not see. You cannot find what you are not looking for) Step 2: generate credible evidence that stands up in a court of law (research and robust injury reporting) Step 3: lawsuits (Jumping to step 3 without the evidence the court requires will end badly, as in it will set a precedent against the victims.) But a close Step 2a for us is compassion for those families already suffering. They need good funding to establish mechanisms of injury, medical education, and treatments. Establish effective protocols for early intervention that will save lives before they suffer permanent disability or die. …there is a reason you are not seeing the lawyers up in arms about the announcement last week. It’s because they need these steps to happen for them to be able to win cases.

Meet the patients, families, and physicians who spoke at NIH on October 5. Four patient and family presenters shared deeply personal experiences of loss, life-changing injuries, and the challenges of seeking answers and care. They were joined by three physicians who brought clinical perspectives and emphasized the need for further scientific investigation and improved patient care. Each presenter brought a different experience to the room, but all shared a common goal: ensuring that patients and families are listened to and their concerns are taken seriously. Read more: hhs.gov/press-room/hhs-stren…