In Oregon, people who are accused of crimes but found unable to participate in their own trial because of mental illness are supposed to be sent to the Oregon State Hospital until they are ready to “aid and assist” in their own defense. Advocates say jail is a dangerous place for people with mental illnesses, but even before the pandemic, “aid and assist” patients often faced long waits in jail for space at the hospital. Staffing shortages and other challenges have made the problem even worse. Sally Reid’s son Phillip is currently at the Oregon State Hospital under “aid and assist” after spending over a month in jail in Astoria. He has also spent time at the hospital for civil commitments. Reid tells us how these commitments have affected her family.