Dear John,

Last week we filed a lawsuit on behalf of Dr. Anna Nusslock, DC, who was denied emergency abortion care at Providence St. Joseph Hospital in Humboldt County, California—despite facing life-threatening pregnancy complications.

We are suing the Providence hospital system, demanding justice for the harm Dr. Nusslock suffered. However, this case is not just about one person; it’s a symptom of a larger national crisis. If hospitals can pick and choose which emergencies to treat, it sets a dangerous precedent that could affect many other patients. For years, NWLC has been on the front lines of the fight to ensure hospitals put patients first, and unfortunately, we have seen more hospitals emboldened to deny emergency abortion care since Dobbs. Will you help us fuel the continued fight to protect the rights of women and girls like Anna?

Dr. Nusslock’s story is heartbreaking:

When she arrived at St. Joseph Hospital in the middle of the night, bleeding and in pain while pregnant with twins, her doctor said she was experiencing a miscarriage and needed an emergency abortion—her health and life were at risk. However, hospital staff refused to provide the necessary emergency care due to religious policies. Instead of receiving treatment, Dr. Nusslock was sent away, terrified she was going to die. The hospital that sent her away, offered her only a bucket and towels. Dr. Nusslock received the care she needed at another hospital, but by the time she arrived, her condition was so dire that she needed emergency surgery.

Unfortunately, Dr. Nusslock’s story isn’t unique. We’ve seen a growing national trend where hospitals are increasingly refusing to provide emergency abortion care—and the consequences of that refusal are especially horrific in rural areas like Humboldt County, California, where there are few or no alternative providers. It is critical that we protect every person’s right to access the care they need—especially in emergencies like this one. Your donation today will help us continue this fight for reproductive health and justice for all.

In solidarity,

Emily Martin
she/her
Chief Program Officer
National Women's Law Center