When I first started my website (
Lasiksucks4U.com), warning others of the potential risks of LASIK surgery, I could not name the doctors involved due to litigation. After my med mal lawsuit, I added the doctors? names because I believed then (and still do) that as a matter of public safety, they should be named.
The doctors did not like this, and filed a defamation lawsuit against me. In the course of the 2 years it took for this case to appear before a judge at trial, my website was shut down 3 times, through intimidation and threats of lawsuits against my web hosting companies. On the second attempt, even after a temporary restraining order was denied twice by the courts, my site was shut down due to phone calls and a letter from the doctors? attorney.
Now I have been ordered by the court to remove the doctors? names from my websites, because he stated there was an agreement by the doctors and me. This was due to me changing my website to the state it was prior to adding, so that I would not get sued at that time. I am appealing his decision.
Are My Rights Being Violated?
YES! There was no confidentiality in the med mal lawsuit, although asked for at the very last moment by the doctors. There was no confidentiality in the defamation lawsuit, although some records have been sealed by the court. I have not ever given away my right to speak (or write) about my case, nor did I give up my right when my website was changed back to its original state in November 2003. The First Amendment does grant us Freedom of Speech!
Now A Plea For Help?
Public Citizen took an interest in my case, and the
ACLU also took interest (they helped me obtain local counsel for my appeal).
From their website:
Public Citizen Litigation Group is the litigating arm of Public Citizen. The Group specializes in cases involving health and safety regulation, consumer rights, access to the courts, open government, and the First Amendment, including internet free speech.
Because Public Citizen does not accept funds from corporations, professional associations or government agencies, we can remain independent and follow the truth wherever it may lead. But that means we depend on the generosity of concerned citizens like you for the resources to fight on behalf of the public interest.
They are helping in my appeal, and are doing an exceptional job in providing representation for my rights, however, because my income is limited to disability each month, they need donations. The donations ARE tax deductible, and any donation made in my name (Dom Morgan litigation in comments box) will go towards litigation expenses. If you would like to help, click
https://www.citizen.org/join/member_form.cfm?src=ls4u&contri_account=2.
For those of you who have followed my situation throughout this ordeal know the truth, and the truth should NOT be silenced.
Thank You ALL for your continued support and prayers.
Dom
