Russ Weeks fought a valiant campaign last fall. Underfunded, under covered, and under appreciated, Weeks put his all into the herculean task of dethroning Governor Manchin. The voters of the state chose to keep the incumbent.
However, eleven people and their families can thank Russ Weeks. For twice as long as he pursued the governor's mansion, Weeks fought for these people who tested positive for tuberculosis. These people contracted the disease at Pinecrest Hospital. Some worked there, some were patients, some simply visited the facility. Weeks exposed defective machinery and alleged other abuses. His campaign brought the spotlight of the state onto the hospital.
Those eleven people received half a million dollars in compensation due to the efforts of their lawyers and the publicity brought by Weeks. After his victory, Governor Manchin met with his former opponent to hear Weeks' concerns. Although they strenuously deny that there is an official investigation, the state has looked into some of the issues raised.
Weeks may not have achieved victory, but to eleven people he brought justice.
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