The Anatomy of a Burn Injury Case

In this Girls with Grafts podcast episode, Rachel and Amber sit down with burn survivor Jason Nelson and experienced burn injury attorney Matt Cunningham to explore the complexities of navigating a burn injury legal case.

Jason shares his inspiring story of resilience and recovery, showcasing firsthand how you can turn a tragedy into triumph. Matt provides expert legal insight, breaking down the anatomy of a burn injury lawsuit—from the importance of contacting an attorney quickly and assessing damages to the critical steps in building a strong case. 

Together, they shed light on the challenges survivors and families face and how the legal system can offer a lifetime of support. Tune in to learn about the intersection of personal experience and legal expertise in burn injury cases and how justice can help rebuild lives.

Meet Our Guests 

Matt Cunningham is a trial attorney who has been handling burn injury cases for over 25 years.  He is recognized as one of the top burn injury lawyers in the United States.  He is the owner and President of the Cunningham Law Firm which is recognized as America’s top burn injury law firm.  

Since 1996, Matt and the Cunningham Law Firm have represented over 124 clients involving burn related injuries.  Matt is a member of the National Fire Protection Association, American Burn Association, Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors, and previously a guest speaker at the North American Burn Society.  During his career he has obtained some of the highest verdicts and settlements involving burn related injuries.  In 2008 he obtained the highest burn injury verdict in Arizona state history.  

Matt and the Cunningham Law Firm are recognized as true advocates on behalf of burn survivors, their families, and generously supports the work of burn foundations across the United States.  Matt is recognized as one of the Top 100 Trial Lawyers by the National Trial Lawyers Association, Best Lawyers of America, Elite Lawyers of America, Arizona’s Finest Lawyers, and Southwest Super Lawyers.

Dr. Kevin Foster, Director of the Arizona Burn Center, stated about Matt, “Matt Cunningham has earned the respect of the burn community through his hard work, compassion, and deep understanding of the true impact of burn injuries.”  Matt is honored to be a part of the burn community and a champion of justice for burn survivors and their families.  

Jason Nelson, a Phoenix, Arizona native, experienced a life-altering event on February 9, 2014. A natural gas explosion in a rental home he owned left him with a staggering 80% Total Body Surface Area (TBSA) burn. The trauma was immense, but Jason's resilience shone through.

After enduring countless surgeries, enduring grueling therapy sessions, and navigating the long road to recovery, Jason found a purpose beyond his own healing. Driven by a deep-seated desire to give back to the organizations and individuals who supported him through his ordeal, he dedicated his life to advocating for burn survivors.

Jason's involvement with the Arizona Burn Foundation is a testament to his commitment. As a member of the Board of Directors, he actively contributes to shaping the foundation's mission and strategies. His personal experience provides invaluable insights into the unique challenges faced by burn survivors, enabling him to advocate for programs and initiatives that address their needs effectively.

Moreover, Jason's fundraising efforts have been instrumental in generating over a million dollars to support burn survivors' journeys. His passion and dedication have inspired others to contribute to this worthy cause, ensuring that burn victims receive the necessary resources to thrive.

Jason Nelson's story is a powerful reminder of the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. His unwavering commitment to helping others recover from the devastating impact of burns serves as an inspiration to countless individuals. Through his tireless efforts, he continues to make a significant difference in the lives of burn survivors, transforming their experiences from tragedy to triumph.

Disclaimer: The stories featured on this website are personal accounts shared by individuals from the burn community. Each burn injury, recovery journey, and healing process is unique. These stories are meant to offer connection, insight, and hope but are not intended as medical advice. What worked for one person may not be appropriate for others. The perspectives shared in these stories do not necessarily represent the views of Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors. If you have medical questions or concerns, please consult a qualified healthcare professional.