London Times story about US Thalidomide Survivors

by | Mar 25, 2020

London Times Story US Thalidomide Survivors

The London Times published a story today about US Thalidomide Survivors. The Times New York correspondent Will Pavia was struck by the contrast between the US Survivors experience when compared with UK Survivors.

In the UK, survivors were recognized and compensated in the 1970s. Their struggles are well-known to the public and many of the survivors have known each other for decades. The Thalidomide Trust provides research and support for people with birth defects caused by their mother taking thalidomide during pregnancy.

About US Thalidomide Survivors

U.S. Thalidomide Survivors began as a private Facebook group in June 2016. Today, it provides information and peer support for thalidomide survivors born or currently living in the United States. An annual gathering is held in rotating regions of the United States. Members may also participate in groups and events with thalidomide survivors from around the world.

If you believe you or someone you know was born with defects caused by thalidomide, please email info@usthalidomide.org or call 612-440-1920.
For more information, please visit https://usthalidomide.org/

John Marshall

Most of us participated in a guided tour of the US Capitol Building. Most impressive, in my opinion, was the Rotunda, the infamous domed circular room in the center of the Capitol. The historical paintings i.e., the Declaration of Independence along with the statues and busts of former presidents were impressive. BUT no one could resist looking up!

The conference was a jam-packed three days ending with a “roaming” dinner in the hotel. The term is used lightly, as it turns out, we have a party animal in our midst. Our fearless leader, JoJo Calora, had quite the set-up in his room. He had karaoke goin’ on. He also cranked up the tunes and blasted out heavy metal! Did you know there’s a song about thalidomide? It’s called “Prescribing Horror” by Exodus. You shouldn’t listen to it before you go to sleep. LOL! Fortunately, no neighbors complained, and fun was had by all. Although there was food, snacks, and drinks in three other rooms, people didn’t roam much. JoJo had the fun room! Can’t wait for next year!

Robert Gamble, JoJo and Elizabeth

 

We consider this conference successful! We are moving forward with our campaign and we can’t do it alone. We need YOUR help! Write your senators and representatives! Tell your friends what we have learned. One person could be the link we need to be heard. Be a part of our success story!

Need assistance with this process? Please call our info line (612-440-1920) and we’ll connect you with our legislative committee!