My personal struggle of tracing back my medical records to understand the potential effect of an early-age spinal surgery on my current health condition, leads me to initiate this petition. My parents, grandparents, and other older family members who might have had information about my essential medical history are no longer with us. Much to my dismay, it has come to my attention that the hospital no longer stands and my medical records have been discarded, leaving me in a difficult position to learn what future challenges I might face due to the previous medical intervention.

The principle of not destroying medical records while the person is living forms the crux of this petition. It is vital in any healthcare setting, even when a department or facility closes. These records are part of an individual’s identity, their medical history, illustrating their health battles over time. 

Moreover, medical records detailing illnesses or surgeries of children must not be destroyed without the individuals permission when they reach the age of 25. Past health records are vital for understanding potential future health implications, especially ones rooted in their early-stage sicknesses. There are countless individuals, just like me trying to understand the impact of their childhood medical conditions on their current health. 

Undoubtedly, the loss of such crucial medical records can lead to significant harm to patients. Hence, our medical system must prioritize the preservation of these records to ensure the continuous care that each patient deserves. Please, sign this petition to advocate for saving crucial medical records of the living, and not to discard child medical records once they turn 25. Save them for our health's sake.