I am writing this in response to an article that was recently ran in your paper entitled “Senate passes workers’ comp. plan.”

As a disabled recipient of workman’s compensation, I would like to have my case and the case of others in my situation heard.

I have mailed letters to every member of the Mississippi Senate in order to have my voice heard and would appreciate you letting the public know that I am ready and willing to fight for myself and others in the same shape.

First, I would like to express my appreciation to Senators Gloria Williamson, District 18, and Robert Jackson, District 11, for speaking up on this matter. We, the injured workers of Mississippi, need more of our elected representatives fighting for our rights. These two have made a good start in not only standing up for us but standing up for what is morally right if not legally required.

On April 26, 2001, while working at the International Paper Mill in Natchez, the platform I was standing on collapsed and I fell 22’ 4” to the floor. I am now in a wheel chair, and although I am working very hard both in physical therapy and independently to regain use of my legs, this has not yet happened. This accident was a direct result of negligence on the part of management. The grate on the platform had not been properly welded and collapsed. I spent 38 years of my life in dedicated service to this company only to know that my benefits will be ended due to time limitations.

While I understand that these limits are in place to protect companies from fraudulent claims there must also be intolerance for life-changing and potentially fatal negligence. Where is the protection for the rest of us? Those of us who have been permanently injured due to the gross negligence of these companies that laws are protecting.

Second, I would like to encourage anyone that is in danger of losing benefits that they deserve because of stories like mine to step up and be heard. These two Senators have put their careers and reputations on the line for us. We should stand behind them and let them know that we not only appreciate this but are also willing to assist them in this fight in whatever way that we can.

It is my firm belief that God allowed me to survive this accident in order to help others. This is just another way for me to achieve this. I will stand, I will fight, I will not give up.

Edward (Skeeter) Wilson

Natchez resident