Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably heard about the issues with the water supply in Flint, Michigan. I’ve paid much attention to and followed the story on the news in recent weeks, as folks call for the Governor of Michigan to resign, people at the EPA have lost their jobs, and most importantly the people of Flint have been subjected disgusting levels of lead in water that they have been using to bathe, eat, and otherwise live.

Primarily, I write about this here because having clean and running water (and consequently access to quality plumbing) is the first-world benefit that I’ve never quite felt that I’ve taken for granted. Especially as a person with a disability, there are so many aspects of my life that are made possible due to clean, running water, that are even more serious than being able to take a hot shower in the morning.

Secondarily, I write because there’s a connection to Virginia Tech. If you visit this page you’ll learn much more about the students and faculty and Virginia Tech whose research has been mentioned in relation to the Flint Water Crisis in the media in the past few weeks. It’s unfortunate that I can even say “the past few weeks” because this issue began back in the spring of 2014. It’s just now coming to light 2 years later. A state of emergency was only just established earlier this month.

To be clear, the research these folks have done has saved lives. As a result of the water crisis, lives have been lost. People’s lives will, also, be affected for years to come as diseases and other ailments come to light as a result of the lead exposure. This is life-changing for these folks.

Tonight, Marc and the team are holding a prezo in Blacksburg about the work they’ve done. Here’s a link to the live stream, if you’re interested; I’ll definitely be watching.