The following is a paid advertisement.

My name is Molly Akers. When a lab switched my biopsy slide with another woman’s, I was misdiagnosed with breast cancer and a doctor needlessly removed my breast.

Real people suffer when such errors occur. I needed several surgeries to fix the preventable mistake and spent countless hours in physical therapy. My young children were terrified to see me in pain while their father washed my hair or helped me out of bed.

Due to no fault of my own I had an unnecessary mastectomy. If powerful corporate interests had their way, my ability to pursue fair compensation for my injuries would have been severely impaired. At best I might have received a token payment.

Our civil justice system protects our constitutional rights, so we can hold wrongdoers responsible. Our courts, funded with our tax dollars, provide accountability and effect changes that reduce the likelihood of serious mistakes reoccurring.

Something terrible happened to me, but it could have been you or someone you love. Please protect open access to Illinois courts.

The Illinois Trial Lawyers Association fights to ensure all citizens get equal footing in the courtroom. To learn more about Molly, click here.