IRVO’S LAW ANNIVERSARY

• Irvo’s Law was birthed out of indescribable pain, frustration, and unnecessary suffering. My son’s death was both preventable and avoidable.

• The Virginia Office of the Chief Medical Examiner ruled Irvo Otieno’s death to be caused by positional and mechanical asphyxia. His death was ruled a homicide.
  That truth stands. Know your rights under the law.

• I was nefariously blocked, impeded, and separated from seeing my son while he was at Henrico Doctors’ Hospital—Parham.
  That separation prevented me from supporting and advocating for my son.
  I later learned that Irvo was also calling out for me.

• Irvo’s Law is both a tribute to Irvo’s life and a safeguard for others like him who may find themselves in a similar situation.

• Separation at the hospital causes real harm. Let’s keep patients at the hospital—not in jail.

• My sincerest thanks to the Virginia Legislature of 2024 for passing Irvo’s Law unanimously.

• Irvo’s Law ensures you access to be with your loved one in a mental health crisis as they navigate treatment—something I was denied.
  Incrementally, we can build on it.

• More needs to be done to ensure safety, dignity, and the right treatment at the right time for all mental health patients.

• Know your rights under the law.