Junk Science Accusation
Reported by Deborah - July 22, 2004 -
At 9:13 Pm on 7/21/04, during The Real John Edwards segment, on Hannity&Colmes, Hannity once again made an accusation that John Edwards used "junk science" to win a very large case concerning a child born with cerebral palsey. Hannity acted as if Edwards made up this theory without any scientific basis. I have heard Hannity drag out this "junk science" label frequently, to paint Edwards as an unscrupulous ambulance chaser.As a special education teacher,I know that Hannity's is way off the mark.
It has been widely believed in all medical circles that Cerebral Palsey can be caused by problems during the birthing process. A lack of oxygen caused by fetal distress in the womb was, until recently, considered to be one of the major causes of cerbral palsey. In recent years, research shows that there are a multitude of causes but very often a Doctor's negligence is the cause. John Edwards won this case,which was decided by a jury, before much of this new
research. It was not 'junk science" as Hannity insists.
Also, my experience with children suffering with this painful and often crippling problem, makes Hannity's self righteous attitude difficult to tolerate. I have seen heartbroken mothers forced to sign their children over to the state, so that they can recieve decent residential care. Hannity is implying that parents are exploiting their children's agony to make a buck, with Edward's help. This is shameful.
Last night, at the same time that Hannity was spouting off about trial lawyers,
John Edwards was interviewed on Larry King, CNN. King asked Edwards about all the flack he's getting about his profession. Edwards calmly said that there are bad lawyers and good lawyers and he feels good about the people he has helped. It's that simple.
