On June 14th I bought 2 American flags to participate in the No Kings protest that I thought had plastic poles. I held them all day and at the end of the day felt like I had cactus splinters in my hands. That night I threw my clothes in the wash not thinking anything of it. The next day I realized I couldn't see the splinters in my hand and checked the website of the store I bought the flags from and saw a review that said the flags were made from fiberglass. By this time I didn't realize by tossing the clothes in the washer I had contaminated all my other clothes, my towels, my sheets, and more. I've had to throw away all my clothes, shoes, towels, sheets, and need to throw away my rugs, my upholstered furniture, rugs, and anything porous. I've incurred medical costs and this has affected my mental health. I've stopped eating and sleeping much because I can't see the particles and I don't want to inhale or ingest them.

The microscopic particles are now in my washer and dryer which need to be replaced. Because they got in my other clothes and towels, the splinters are now in my feet, chest, neck, belly, arms, legs, lips, and other areas. I have incurred costs for doctors visits and medication.

I'm incurring costs for gloves, throwaway towels, and PPE. I need to buy specialized vacuums and I need to get cleanings services to come in. These all cost hundreds of dollars. I need a vacuum that is sealed with a HEPA filter. The cheapest is $400. Cleaning services can be up to $1000. I need a full face respirator mask, disposable suits, booties, and gloves.

I have already found a foster for my cat because I don't want him stepping in or ingesting the particles but I don't know if it is long term. I will be contacting a lawyer about the damages and losses. I will need to be paying lawyer fees due to the sale of this defective product. I should be focusing on paying for my upcoming licensure application and test, but now I have to worry about this. I already work 2 jobs. Please help me.