Right to Try 2.0: Jennifer and Maya Reinhardt on Access, Hope, and the Fight for Life-Saving Treatments

On this episode of the Health Policy Podcast, Jennifer and Maya Reinhardt share their powerful story of battling cystic fibrosis and a life-threatening antibiotic-resistant infection. When traditional treatments failed and FDA barriers stood in the way, Jennifer fought to access bacteriophage therapy — an international treatment not approved in the United States at the time. The journey required extensive research, travel to Oregon, international coordination, and navigating federal red tape, all while Maya's health rapidly declined. The treatment ultimately stabilized Maya long enough for her to later benefit from FDA-approved breakthrough therapy Trikafta. Their experience highlights the urgency behind Right to Try 2.0 legislation, which aims to streamline access to individualized, doctor-supervised treatments without lengthy federal delays. The Reinhardts argue that when patients are facing terminal or severe illness, time and access should not be determined by bureaucracy. Their story is a case for restoring hope and medical autonomy to families fighting for survival.