[MR] Revisions, legal issues, and health concerns

[Karen Banks]

Greetings all!

Some months ago I did research on the requirements for
the members of our organization to have access to
group health insurance.  When I proposed this concept
to this list, I was met with an overwhelming positive
response.  Because of our sheer numbers health
insurance, which would cover injuries as well as
general health, would be very affordable.

I mention this again, as the discussion of fighting,
force, and leadership has been brought to debate on
this forum.  At this moment, the SCA does not offer
such coverage making individuals either pay out of
pocket for private coverage or for injury.

Fighting has inherent risks, just as all sports do. 
The list of broken or sprained this or that may be
out- measured by the long-term injuries caused by
excessive force and repetitive strain.  Elbows, knees,
are particularly vunerable, which is one of the
reasons why we must be reasonable and considerate of
the long term consequences of hitting and receiving
blows which are excessive in force.  I think those of
us who fight, will agree that we would like to
continue to do so for many years.  By looking at how
many of our senior fighters are now limited in their
fighting, as a result of injuries, I think we can
learn from their experience.  I would like to see
excessive skill, not mindless excessive force.

Legally, by knowingly allowing excessive force to
continue we open ourselves, our marshals, and the
organization up to severe legal consequences.  Do not
think for a moment that our waivers will protect you
if you severely injury another party.  The day will
come when an unskillfully placed blow, with too much
force behind it, will cost someone and possibly the
entire organization, dearly.

The responsibility to ensure our safety in this matter
falls to our leaders.  Let us make sure that fighting
is about having fun and not about hurting people to
compensate for a small penis.

All the best - K

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