Witness Testimony

Jennifer Curry testified that she received her first Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine dose on October 23, 2021, primarily due to employment requirements and financial stability tied to her federal contract position. Within minutes of leaving the vaccination site, she experienced facial numbness that progressed to full-body numbness, intense itching sensations described as crawling or moving under the skin, and escalating anxiety. She sought medical attention after being advised by a health hotline, but stated that hospital staff attributed her symptoms largely to anxiety rather than a physical reaction. Over the following days, visible facial scratching developed and cognitive symptoms emerged, including significant short-term memory impairment affecting her work performance.
Despite persistent symptoms, she received a second dose on November 13, 2021, after being unable to obtain a medical exemption. She testified that symptoms intensified following the second injection, including worsening numbness, severe pruritus triggered by light touch or water, fatigue, cognitive slowing, and increased emotional distress. She reported repeated medical visits, neurologist referrals, MRIs, and further diagnostic testing after months of ongoing symptoms.
Curry stated that on March 23, 2023, she was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis after presenting with neurological signs including numbness, cognitive dysfunction, bowel issues, stiffness, dizziness, and visual disturbances. She testified that she had no prior history of such symptoms and believes the vaccination precipitated or triggered her condition. She described long-term physical limitations, decreased strength and stamina, persistent cognitive impairment, and significant social and emotional impacts resulting from her health decline.