We are friends of Kirk Bloodsworth, organizing this fundraiser with his permission. Kirk is currently hospitalized and facing a serious medical battle. Over the past several months, he has been in and out of multiple hospitals and treatment centers, and doctors are still working hard to diagnose and treat him so he can finally see a clear path to regaining his health. The uncertainty and ongoing medical challenges have taken a toll, and Kirk needs our support now more than ever.

Many of you know Kirk’s remarkable life story. He was the first person in a death penalty case exonerated by DNA testing. In the more than three decades since his release from prison, Kirk has fought tirelessly to create a fair and accurate legal justice system and help so many in need. He led the fight to ensure DNA testing for people with innocence claims, resulting in the federally-funded Kirk Bloodsworth Post-Conviction DNA Testing Act. He walked the halls of the Maryland Statehouse for more than a decade until the state abolished the death penalty, directed Witness to Innocence, an organization by and for death row exonerees, and shared his powerful story with tens of thousands of people in the U.S. and abroad in his successful efforts to change hearts and minds on the death penalty issue.

Now, Kirk needs our help. His medical and other bills are mounting while he struggles to regain his health. The funds raised will help cover immediate medical costs, such as deductibles, premiums, prescriptions, and medical equipment for recovery, as well as essential living expenses like rent and utilities. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a major difference and provides immense relief to Kirk, physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Other Ways to Help

If you aren’t able to donate financially right now, you can still be a huge help: