As the LRI, my ability to provide consistent and expert care is essential for managing the complexities of my child’s severe cerebral palsy. Any amendment that deprioritizes my role would risk the safety of my child, as less experienced caregivers could mishandle the critical medical equipment they rely on, leading to life-threatening situations.

My child has severe cerebral palsy, requiring constant physical assistance and careful management of their medical devices. I have spent years mastering the use of feeding tubes, ventilators, and other critical equipment that keeps my child alive. Handing over this responsibility to an unfamiliar caregiver could lead to equipment malfunctions or improper care, which could have catastrophic consequences. I should be the first choice to continue providing the expert care my child depends on. The support provided by HB909/SB488 has been essential in allowing me to remain my child’s primary caregiver, ensuring that their complex medical needs are consistently met. The Virginia General Assembly’s actions have been pivotal in maintaining the high standard of care necessary for my child’s survival. Amending these provisions could lead to mistakes with medical devices, putting my child’s life at risk. The current waiver draft could introduce caregivers who are not adequately trained to handle the sophisticated equipment my child relies on, leading to potentially fatal errors.