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CommentsLiz was courageous as a lawyer, mother, wife and friend. Her values were stellar. She never compromised when it came to the rights and medical interventions for children. She uniquely understood the challenges that parents of autistic children face and was able to convey her views to Congress as she worked on the Autism Hearings with Congressman Burton. Even when her own son faced new medical challenges, her strength never faltered to give her all so that other autistic children wouldn’t suffer. She was always there to lend a helping hand, motivational energy and wise judgment to any autism meeting or event. Our most favorite quote from Liz came from an email. Early in 2003, Senator Frist offered parents his version of a new compensation program to update VICA. Liz wisely summed up his new VICA in three words, “It’s a crumb.” It was our rallying cry to fight him with everything we had. Over the years, we have laughed so much with Liz over this statement and so many others. Her knack of using humor to point to the larger truths was her hallmark and indicative of her brilliance. Liz, we will forever thank you for speaking out against injustice exactly as you saw it. Our hearts are broken. We can only imagine the pain and loss that her father, brothers, children, ex-husband and longtime friend since childhood, Jim Moody, must be feeling. As we search for meaning in this tragedy, our only solace is that Liz will always be with us in spirit. Scott and Laura Bono
CommentsLiz is a hero to all of us in the autism community, a tireless champion for her own child and for ours. I've never known anyone quite like Liz Birt. She was an wonderful combination of brilliant and goofy, fierce and gentle, and so full of love for everyone around her. Her sense of humor was a force in itself, and you could rarely stop smiling in Liz's company. She was a gift to us all. With love and prayers to her beloved children and countless friends, - Wendy
CommentsLiz had a wicked sense of humor, so I shall focus some on that. For starters, if you ever roomed with her, she'd talk your ear off until the late hours--I loved it. Or any time she talked about pharma or the CDC. A few cracks of her gum, the most laid-back voice and she'd casually say something that would have us in tears laughing. She would put "xxoo" at the end of her e-mails many times, and I'll definitely miss that. I always thought of her as the "unintimidating scholar." Never took herself too seriously, never cared too much what people thought of her. She was 17 years older, but could out-run me any day of the week. A marathon runner, she even ran through the halls of a DAN conference once. A few of these moms are like older sisters to me, and she was no exception. She also brought Jim Moody into our lives, which has been a huge gain for our children. For that, and for her endless fight, I will always be grateful. She was in awe of Sarah's artistic talents, extremely proud of Andrew, and furiously fought every day for Matthew. To her family, children, and close friends...we are so very sorry for your loss. The community couldn't have asked for a better person here on earth, and certainly couldn't ask for anyone better to watch over our children from Heaven. xxoo Lori McIlwain & Christian and Connor
CommentsFor Liz She was loved by her family.
She always had a smile.
She had a party side.
She was easy to laugh.
She chose to seek all the information she could about her son’s illness.
She was quick to speak her mind.
She gave her time, effort and energy to autism.
She never gave up.
She was the apple of her daddy’s eye.
CommentsLiz was such a blessing to me as a friend and to my children as an advocate. She was an extraordinary person, able to light up a room just by being in it and make everyone feel better about the world in general just knowing she was part of it. I will miss her more than I can say. Despite her wonderful wit and personality, Liz was a force to be reckoned with by anyone who tried to stand between her and the truth. Her ability to steadfastly do the right thing by our kids took intelligence, courage, and tenacity that few have in such generous quantity as Liz. My sincere sympathies go to Liz's family and all who loved her. She had many friends who will forever cherish their wonderful memories of her. Rita Shreffler
CommentsI am so terribly sorry that her family and the community has lost Liz. What an amazing, talented, wonderful, intelligent, and caring spirit. She has left behind a wonderful legacy and I hope that we'll all re-double our efforts and will continue her fight. My most sincere and heartfelt condolences go out to Liz's family and friends and to the others involved in the accident.
CommentsYou could always count on Liz to be there when you needed her and she never ended a phone call without saying "I love you”. She could always make me laugh, no matter how stressed or tired I was. Every time I saw her she would have some goofy gift she had picked up somewhere - a magnet, bumper sticker, pen...just something that let me know I was in her thoughts. I will be forever grateful for the knowledge, courage, drive, and dedication that I learned by her example. I will miss her terribly and I hope her children will always know that they were the driving force behind everything she did. She was a very proud mother and was always emailing photos and updates on Sarah, Andrew and Matthew's latest accomplishments. She leaves a legacy of commitment that we will all work to honor and continue. Liz, we will win, and when we do, one of the first things I will picture is your beautiful smile. Anissa Ryland
CommentsI'm new to this community, only recently becomming aware of the link between mercury & autism. I began my research just under a year ago. In my first book of notes,on the first page, written in the wee hours of the morning, was "Liz Bert" It was her work that led me to SafeMinds & Generation Rescue. I owe the recovery of my son, Jimmy, to her. I never had the chance to meet her, but the impact she had on my family cannot be measured. Her work reflects her spirit, she will shine in the eyes of recovered children forever. My heart goes out to her family and friends. May God bless and comfort you. Thank you Liz, may you rest in peace, Judy Hart
CommentsSmart, funny, tenacious, tireless, fierce, giving, uncompromising, warm. The Autism community has lost an amazing fighter in this tragedy. We will miss you. And Liz, we will NEVER give up. Holly Bortfeld
CommentsAs I read through all that Liz did to bring the Thimerosal issues to light in Washington I thank God that she had the fortitude to take a stand for what was right. No one will ever know the children saved from that effort to expose the dangers. She worked against the grain all while walking through her own child's illness. Liz Birt you are the inspiration that spurs me on! All our prayers and thoughts are with your family now. Karen Beauvais Mom to Josh recovering Mercury damage.
CommentsShe is a person who will be missed by many.
CommentsI first met Liz in Washington, DC in 2000 during the Hear Their Silence Rally and testimonies...and yes, she had our table laughing all during supper. We were all new at this but I knew she would rock some boats...and hopefully, later, some votes. She was fearless and driven and oh how she loved her children! I will always cherish the tape I have of Lyn and Liz reading off the names of our affected children and adults at Atlanta's Olympic Park before a conference here. This tragedy should spur us all on to stand more firm, speak more truth, to hold on to those in our community for support and to never give up! We have lost a strong link in our chain and we must work to regain that strength. Liz's family is in our prayers. Nancy Cale
CommentsI personally never knew Liz and to be honest didn't even know about her until today, but she has impacted my family immensely. I have 3 boys on the Spectrum and it is a challenge every single day. Thank you Liz for fighting for our kids and making a difference. Rest in Peace.
CommentsAn inspiring colleague has fallen. I am deeply saddened. May we all rededicate ourselves to protecting living and yet unborn children from thimerosal and other toxins which alter lives. Thank you, Liz, for all you did - within your family and for the world. Teresa Binstock
CommentsLoss is such a challenging thing to contend with, especially the loss of a friend. It is ever more obvious that we come and go, into and out of this realm, with timing and for reasons that are beyond our ability to comprehend. It is sad and tragic day for those of us who knew and loved her, and of course for those who lacked the voice to thank her for her tireless efforts. I am heart-broken at her passing and offer my deepest condolences and prayers to her family. Andrew Levinson, MD
CommentsLiz Birt was the first person from EOH that I ever met emailed, after David Kirby. Her story moved me to tears and affected more than any other and I asked him for her email address. She was always modest about her efforts, and complimentary about whatever I was doing. I spent an evening with her in Washington in Oct. and knew that she was in this fight to the finish. In that spirit, we will all continue. It was a privilege to know her. Anne McElroy Dachel
CommentsOur family did not know Liz personally. However we feel kinship with others 'experiencing autism', and admiration for those who do not bow down under ASD. Productive action is the best recourse yet - and thank goodness for people like Liz. We are saddened for her loss, devestated for her family and loved ones, and so grateful for her efforts for us all. Thank you, so very much. -c.e.donohue
CommentsWhat an incredible loss to the autism community. Liz was a great friend, mom, advocate, and leader. We will miss her dearly. Let us all rally around her wonderful children Sarah, Matthew and Andrew. We will continue what you started, Liz. Peace, Peter Bell
CommentsMartin Luther King Jr. once said Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter. Liz was never one to keep silent about the things that matter...she was passionate about the toxins that have damaged our children, she was passionate about changing the system to protect future children. We will all follow in her footsteps and keep fighting her fight. My sincere condolences to Liz's family and close friends. She was loved by many and will be terribly missed. Doreen Granpeesheh
CommentsWhat a terrible, terrible loss for the autism community and her family. Liz was a tireless advocate and fundraiser. She always found time to talk and help people. I am reading through some of her e-mails to me and am still amazed at her will to fight for all autistic children and autism awareness/issues. She will not be soon forgotten. My condolescences to her family, my heart aches for you. I remember her daughter (who was wise beyond her years) giving a speech about life with her brother with autism at a fundraiser. Stay strong. Her loss will be felt for many years to come. Everyone will miss you. Thank you Liz, for all you did for my child and all children afflicted with this disease. You are truly special. Love- Patrick Fulton
CommentsI didn't know Liz personally but I sure wish that I had. She seems to have been a wonderful,loving and devoted person. I read Liz's story in Evidence of Harm and I was truly touched by this woman's courage. She never gave up the fight for her son. Even more, she never gave up the fight for all autistic children and that would include my son. Because of people like Liz I have more courage to face the day. I know there are people out there fighting for our children. I can only hope that I will be as strong in this fight as Liz. God be with her family, loved ones and friends in this time of loss. And never let us forget what she has done for our children and the future children of not just America, but the world. Rest in peace, Liz, and thank you from the bottom of my heart for all that you did. Rachel Gary: Mother to Tyler PDD/Autism
CommentsLiz and I never met in person; but she answered my e-mails and was always so supportive. I sent her REAACH alerts, and she sent support....most recently for the MA Bill to ban mercury....she said "...if you need help let me know; I know Bobbie and Bob; Thanks for all you are doing, Liz" ....I think that was so much of her character: to give help....whenever possible; to empathize; to continue the good fight. We at REAACH grieve for her family, and offer our deepest, deepest sympathies at this time; the loss is already being felt." Suzanne Messina REAACH, MFVC
CommentsOur thoughts and prayers are with Liz Bert's family and friends. The autism community lost a wonderful friend but our angel will still be with us! When we heard the news today, we could not help but think of Sarah MacLachlan's song, 'Angel': "Spend all your time waiting,for that 2nd chance For a break that would make it ok There's always some reason,to feel not good enough And it's hard at the end of the day. I need some distraction,oh a beautiful release Memories seep from my veins They maybe empty,oh and weightless and maybe They'll find some peace tonight. In the arms of the angel Fly away from here From this cold dark hotel room And the endlesness that you fear. You are pulled from the wreckage,Of your silent reverie Your in the arms of the angel May you find some comfort here. So tired of the straight line,that everywhere you turn There's vultures and thieves at your back. Storm keeps on twistin', keep on building the lies That you make up for all that you lack. It don't make no difference,escape one last time It's easier to believe And this sweet madness, oh this glorious sadness That brings me to my knees. In the arms of the angel Fly away from here From this dark cold hotel room And the endlessness that you fear You are pulled from the wreckage,of your silent reverie And in the arms of the angel May you find some comfort here. Your in the arms of the angel May you find some comfort here." Liz, you never waited for a second chance - you just did it for all of us!! Love, The Hybl Family
CommentsDear Liz, You have been an advocate and leader in our autism revolution. I only knew you from the distance in the earlier years, but our paths were destined to cross. As I got to know you better, I saw how caring and loving you were in addition to your strength and brilliance. Your devotion to Matthew and the truth, has been and will always be my inspiration. Your spirit and courage will continue to strengthen me. I will never give up and will keep up the fight. Love, Teresa Conrick
CommentsI've only read about Elizabeth Birt in the book "Evidence of Harm", however, I have a great respect for all that she stood for. I am a parent of an autistic child and it's people like her that make me proud. I'm writing this because I'm not sure what killed her but she seems so young. I prayers go out to her family. Pamela Evans
CommentsIt is with great sadness that we learned of the tragic death of Liz Birt. Liz was a great personal friend to many of us and played a key role in the setting up of Thoughtful House. On behalf of children with autism, she was a devoted mother, a tireless worker, and the bravest of advocates. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family. Andy Wakefield
CommentsWe lost a friend yesterday. Liz Burt, mother to Sarah, Matthew, and Andrew Lopez - board member of Safe Minds, A-Champ, and NAA died in a car accident. We commemorate a friend today. A woman of courage, vision, who lived to save her son, is gone. Our heart aches. We mourn her passing and celebrate her life. Her incandescent life shines on. In life my children, in death my children - a mother’s love is never gone. Liz’s commitment to all our children lightens our souls and tempers our grieve. Liz is Home – At Peace – In God. We pray for Liz. We pray for her family. We pray for ourselves. We lost a friend yesterday and the world is less. Ed Arranga Autism One
CommentsOne of the most amazing and rewarding aspects of the "autism movement" is the sense of family that bonds everyone together. At times like this those bonds are painfully real as we mourn the loss of a founding member family member. Liz was there at the begining and she will be there at the end. My deepest sympathy to her family. Richard Deth
CommentsI am one of the many parents that didn't know Liz personally. However, from the EOH book and hearing so much about her tireless work and spirit from others on the internet, I feel like i know her and am deeply saddened by this loss to the autism community. My prayers are with all of those touched by Liz Birt. She was an angel to us all. -- Tricia Morin
CommentsLiz was a pioneer, visionary, and key player in the mercury movement. A courageous hero. Our condolences to her family and the autism community. Her contributions will be greatly missed.
CommentsI am deeply saddened to hear that Liz has passed. She was always willing to help and a friend to everyone she met. With Liz, it was always "where there's a will, there's a way". Personally, she played a significant role in our lives and offered her much needed help in many instances. She helped me get Michelle's biopsies shipped to Ireland - to Dr. O'Leary's lab - for testing. When Michelle's health was severely deteriorating in late 2002, she told me of a "great doctor in NY" - which is Arthur Krigsman. She said "Theresa, take her to him. He'll help her" and he did-he saved her life. She was always there with advice, willing to represent Michelle as her attorney whenever Michelle was wronged by the medical community (which is often), and she had such a strong will to live and make things better for Matthew and the rest of our kids. I can't believe she is gone and she will be deeply missed. Like so many of us, she suffered greatly with Matthew's illness. I am certain she has a special place in Heaven. Our prayers are with Matthew, Sarah and Andrew and her family. God Bless you Liz Theresa, Michael and Michelle Cedillo
CommentsWhat a terrible loss it is to all of us in autism community! It is hard to believe, and to accept, that such a vital person, such a good friend and passionate worker for our cause, is gone. Liz, you are gone, but you and what you have done will not be forgotten. Bernard Rimland
CommentsLiz was an incredible inspiration to me and so many others. I often marveled at her incredible strength to keep moving forward in her work. Her work on behalf of not only her family but the thousands of children who were injured. She was a gracious hostess -- warm and welcoming and generous. Her loss will be felt so deeply throughout this country and abroad. She embraced life - its challenges and wonder. May God rest her soul and comfort her family who have lost such an incredible human being. We were fortunate to know her and will miss her so. Tali and Julian Wendrow
CommentsWe knew where to sit at the fundraisers…..in the back, next to Liz. A delicious combination of endless wit and a wicked sense of humor. And, for good measure, she suffered fools poorly. Fate threw us together at those tables. Her empty chair is more than we can bear. So long, good friend. We won’t let you down. Shelley and Jeff Segal
CommentsAt 5:10 a.m. this morning, my wife told me that we received an email from Jim Donnelly of Autism One that Liz Birt had died. Half awake, I asked her to repeat what she said. When she had, all I could say is "you're kidding me. You're kidding me." I couldn't assimilate her words. It ruined my day. While I've only met Liz once, and have only had a few phone conversations with her (in preparation to interview her for FAIR's website this january) I'm grieved by her loss. I've followed her exploits over the last few years and my admiration of her only grew after reading Evidence of Harm. She's among my heroes. Losing her is hard enough, particularly during the challenges our community is now facing... but she's shown us the way. As she was fond of saying "never give up" and "never give in" I can promise that we never will. We're in a brutal fight to save our children from a blind government and a greedy industry. Thanks to Liz, we know it pays to fight. And we're in it for the long haul. For her loss, we'll grieve. For her family, we'll pray. For our children, we'll fight. God Bless, Erik Nanstiel FAIR Autism Media http://www.autismmedia.org/
CommentsLiz Birt was a talented, bright and couragous woman whose impact on the autism community cannot be quantified. I had the honor of meeting her on several occassions this year, and also learned quite a bit from Liz through our parent support group in Illinois. It is because of Liz and other selfless, dedicated parents and the trail they blazed that my family now has hope for a brighter future for my son. Hope. It is the precious gift she has given us. I pray that Liz's family will find peace in knowing what an impact she had, and will continue to have, on so many young lives. Liz, I wish I could tell you one more time, "Thank you for paving the way." Karen McDonough
CommentsIt's hard to overstate the significance of what Liz Birt did for the autism community and the significance of this tragic and untimely loss. She was a fearless leader with deep compassion for suffering children and their families. Her efforts effected autism politics and science and they effected all of us who knew her. We knew Liz personally and she touched our lives in many ways. We will remember her courage, tenacity, brillance and most certainly, her most remarkable humor. The effects of her efforts on the autism community, politics and science are real and will continue to unfold. We may have lost a warrior but we will not lose the war. Liz would not have wanted it any other way. In peace with love and compassion, we will pray for her dear children and for all the children she fought so hard to save. Dave, Vicky and Sam Debold Oakton, VA
CommentsThank you Liz for all you have done. I have only met you thru your story in Evidence of Harm and the many articles I have read, but I feel a kinship with you. Your hard work on behalf of many damaged children will never be forgotten. Colin's Mom
CommentsLiz...a real woman of heart and substance. Her spirit is alive and within us. Our heartfelt thoughts go to Liz's family. Liz made an incredible impact in all of our lives. Warm regards, Kimberly Greene
Commentsi am in shock after learning about liz's sudden death it is a tragedy, beyond measure she was not only a tireless and fearless crusader for the truth she was a wonderful person, and a good friend to many of us in the DAN community this type of sudden, tragic, almost incomprehensible event speaks to the ephemeral, downright fickle, nature of life itself and begs us to live life fully in the moment giving and expressing our love and feelings to those who matter to us and who we indeed love be they family, or close friends i am thankful for some quality time we spent in Boulder in October lecturing together, then hiking up a mountain leaving each other with warm hugs, and expressions of love and friendship it is not morbid to acknowledge that our departing time from this life we lead on earth is never really known it is actually realistic, and hopefully allows us to live more fully in the present liz lived fully, including significant challenges, and significant joys our lives were enriched by her presence in them and she will be missed but never forgotten kb
CommentsIt is easy to join a cause when you know resistance is low and chances of success are high. But angels like Liz dedicated their lives to a cause that had and still has high resistance. Only time will immortalize the work that she did when the whole world will accept the fallacy of our current medical system. Until then, she will always be our angel of hope. May God Almighty bless her soul. Ankit
CommentsAlthough I never met Liz, I was truly inspired by her story in EOH. Her courageous and tenacious spirit came through so vividly as I read her story. What a shock to learn she is no longer with us. Our hearts go out to her children, her family and friends, and others involved in the accident. Kim Ii
CommentsI live in the UK and feel we are all very much part of one big family united in justice for our children. I never met Liz but had e-mails from her as part of a group. On behalf of the parents in the UK I just want to say how sorry and shocked we all are. Her spirit and determation lives on in all of us. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family Isabella Thomas |
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