Thalidomide Survivors Demand Apology

Mary Clarken, a thalidomide survivor in Ireland, urgently seeks a State apology for her mother—now 96 and still alive—before she passes, fearing the delay will leave her child without closure. Her mom, who took just one pill during pregnancy, remains spirited, enjoying crosswords and TV, while insisting the apology must be for the affected children so they can heal. The drug, once widely sold in the 50s and 60s to ease morning sickness, caused devastating birth defects globally, including in Ireland where over 51,000 packets were distributed. Though withdrawn worldwide in 1961, it lingered in Ireland longer. Government leaders, including the Taoiseach, have pledged an apology and say progress is being made, aiming to wrap it up this year. Other survivors, like artist Mary Duffy, echo the call for recognition, sharing their daily struggles and even offering the government guidance on what the apology should include. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/27757706fbebab0e