Another class rep, Ms. Donna Wells Wright, became involved because even though she was being regularly moved between two regional jails, her medications were not. “I would go to the jail and it would take two weeks before I would get my meds … and that’s not right. If you take these [medications] outside the jails, you should be able to get them in the jails.” Then, however, “A letter came in the mail … [and] I wrote to Lydia (MSJ attorney), and that’s where it started.”
Ms. Heather Reed was similarly spurred to become an advocate following a personal medical issue. The jail “took me off my psychiatric medication and replaced it with another medication that had side effects. […] I heard … that MSJ was addressing these issues, so I wanted to be involved.”
After selflessly being involved in this case for nearly four years, the settlement – which includes a new medical contract, a higher quality of care, and a two-year implementation and review period in which Mountain State Justice is heavily involved – has been a long-awaited and well-deserved outcome. Mr. Baxley says, “I’m excited about the changes. If someone comes in [to a jail] in the position I was in, they’re actually able to get the help they need.”
“I was happy when I found out about the settlement,” says Ms. Reed. “I think the lawsuit helped them get their healthcare system together.” She hopes these changes will prevent people from falling through the cracks, as she did.
When asked about her initial reaction to the settlement, Ms. Wells Wright becomes teary, sharing that, when she heard about the settlement, “I cried … for the ones that are still there, I know it’s extremely hard. […] It touched me that someone out there cared enough to put a stop to some of this cruelty.” Resolutions like this remind her that “hope is here.”
Though this case is in its settlement implementation stage, its class reps are not done yet.
Mr. Edmondson is a strong advocate for the rights of Vietnam veterans, and continues to work to bring light to injustices faced by vets such as himself.
Felecia Phillips Ollie DD (h.c.) is the inspiring leader and founder of The Equality Network LLC (TEN). With a background in coaching, travel, and a career in news, Felecia brings a unique perspective to promoting diversity and inclusion. Holding a Bachelor’s Degree in English/Communications, she is passionate about creating a more inclusive future. From graduating from Mississippi Valley State University to leading initiatives like the Washington State Department of Ecology’s Equal Employment Opportunity Program, Felecia is dedicated to making a positive impact. Join her journey on our blog as she shares insights and leads the charge for equity through The Equality Network.
