Neil Anderson, Illinois State Senator for 47th District | www.facebook.com
Neil Anderson, Illinois State Senator for 47th District | www.facebook.com
State Senator Neil Anderson (R-Andalusia) announced that Senate Bill 1814, a measure he sponsored to establish support and an educational initiative for amniotic fluid embolism (AFE), has been signed into law.
“This marks an important step forward in bringing awareness to a condition that is rare, but too often fatal,” said Senator Anderson. “This new law will ensure Illinois is leading the way in educating the public and medical community about AFE.”
The issue carries personal significance for Anderson. His District Operations Staffer, Annie Hewitt, experienced AFE after giving birth to her son in 2022. Following an emergency C-section, Hewitt went into pulmonary failure and was airlifted to the University of Iowa, where she survived despite the odds.
“Because of Annie’s survival, she has committed herself to raising awareness about this devastating condition,” said Senator Anderson. “Her strength and determination inspired this legislation, and I couldn’t be more proud to support her mission.”
Amniotic fluid embolism is a rare childbirth complication that affects about one in every 40,000 deliveries nationwide. The cause remains unknown and the mortality rate can be as high as 60%.
The new law will create an educational initiative in Illinois aimed at providing information and resources about AFE to medical professionals, patients, and the public. The goal is to improve awareness, promote early recognition of symptoms, and encourage further research.
“Stories like Annie’s remind us that while AFE is rare, action is necessary,” said Senator Anderson. “This new law will help save lives by ensuring Illinois families and doctors have access to critical information.”
Anderson was elected as a Republican senator for Illinois’ 47th Senate District in 2023, replacing Jil Tracy.
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