

Getting Anti-Vaxxers To Roll Up Their Sleeves
6 snips Jul 21, 2025
Carl Krawitt, father of cancer survivor Rhett Krawitt, shares his passionate journey in vaccine advocacy after a measles outbreak put his son's health at risk. They discuss the powerful story of a young boy who galvanized his school community to prioritize vaccination. The conversation explores the complexities of vaccine hesitancy, the role of personal narratives, and how social media can amplify advocacy efforts. Krawitt reflects on legislative changes in California and the importance of community responsibility in protecting vulnerable children.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Parents' Wake-Up Call on Vaccine Risk
- Carl Krawitt realized the danger of unvaccinated children when his immunocompromised son Rhett had chemo and was exposed to pertussis in hospital.
- The family was warned by doctors that many children in schools had personal belief vaccine exemptions, putting Rhett at risk.
Rhett's Childhood Advocacy Impact
- During the 2015 Disneyland measles outbreak, Rhett Krawitt, a leukemia survivor, began public speaking advocating for vaccinations.
- His speeches influenced kids in California to get vaccinated and drove legislative efforts to close vaccine loopholes.
Vaccine Law Vote Was Fraught
- On the day of the final vote on SB 277, Rhett and family faced threats from anti-vaccine protesters.
- They were escorted into the Capitol through separate entrances for their safety, showing the contentious environment.