'I’m fighting for her': Oklahoma man honors his late wife pushing for patients’ bill of rights

An Oklahoma House bill for patients' rights cleared a hurdle at the capital on Monday. The measure would ensure people are treated safely and that their family is kept informed at medical facilities. 

The bill is inspired by a man who lost his wife during the pandemic. Gerald Brand’s wife Lori Brand lost her life due to a complicated situation during the pandemic.

Brand said Lori always showed kindness to others and that this bill keeps her spirit alive.  

“I’m fighting for her,” Brand said. 

Brand has fought for a long time to get a patient bill of rights written into Oklahoma law. His story goes back to April of 2020. His late wife Lori suffered from a rare autoimmune disease called relapsing polychondritis. 

“She was a very caring person,” Brand said. 

Lori ended up in the hospital and the pandemic kept her away from her family and Brand felt like he was left in the dark. 

“They really didn’t keep us informed on what went on,” Brand said. 

Brand said his family could not visit Lori for days at a time. Brand said she spent her final three days alone until he had to decide to let her go after her health deteriorated beyond repair. 

“I couldn’t let her lay that way,” Brand said. “So, I had to take her off of everything.” 

Brand advocates for other people to ensure no one goes through the same healthcare experience as his family. 

“People need to be treated with respect,” Brand said. “Things need to change.” 

Rep. Emily Gise (R-Oklahoma City) works with Brand to add patient rights to Oklahoma law. 

“Working with Gerald has been incredible for me,” Gise said. “It will increase accountability.” 

This bill has failed multiple times in previous sessions over the past three years. Gise was able to change some language to bring the bill back. House Bill 1600 needs to be heard by the Legislative Oversight Committee before it is heard on the House floor. 

“When someone’s there to advocate for their loved one, the outcome is always better,” Brand said. 

Brand said Lori always looked out for the best interests of others and he believes Lori would appreciate this effort. 

“She would probably be proud of it,” Brand said.  

Gise said she appreciates Brand's work in keeping this bill on the table. 

“This is gonna do a lot of good for Oklahoma families,” Gise said. “It pushes you to work harder. It’s an honor.”