East Lansing, Michigan, August 18, 2025
News Summary
LingLong Wei, a former Michigan State University student, has initiated a $100 million lawsuit against the university. Wei claims that her thyroid cancer diagnosis is a result of prolonged exposure to hazardous chemicals during her studies. She alleges MSU’s negligence in providing personal protective equipment and proper training for handling harmful substances. Wei’s diagnosis and the subsequent challenges have significantly impacted her life, preventing her from seeking employment and visiting family. A press conference is set to discuss the lawsuit’s details.
East Lansing, Michigan – LingLong Wei, a former Michigan State University (MSU) student, has filed a $100 million lawsuit against the university following her recent diagnosis of thyroid cancer. Wei’s legal action comes in light of her claim that continuous exposure to hazardous chemicals used during her studies contributed to her illness.
Wei learned she had thyroid cancer on July 11, 2024, after a thyroid biopsy revealed cancerous cells during a medical examination on June 26, 2024. Since her diagnosis, she has undergone multiple medical procedures and surgeries aimed at treating her cancer. The toll of ongoing treatments has reportedly made daily life increasingly challenging for her.
The lawsuit highlights Wei’s background as a student at MSU, where she pursued a master’s degree in horticulture from 2008 to 2011. Throughout her academic career, she engaged in extensive field research in which she utilized various hazardous pesticides and herbicides, including paraquat dichloride, glyphosate, and oxyfluorfen. These chemicals have been linked to an elevated risk of thyroid cancer, raising concerns about their impact on Wei’s health.
In her complaint, Wei asserts that MSU did not respond to her requests for personal protective equipment (PPE) or adequate training protocols while she was exposed to these chemicals. The lawsuit also points to a failure by the Olin Health Center at MSU to provide necessary remedies for her chemical exposure, contributing to her claims of negligence.
Wei alleges that MSU’s actions, or lack thereof, have significantly harmed her physically, emotionally, and financially. Her legal team, comprising attorneys Maya T. Green and Tilmandra Wilkerson, states that she has experienced chronic health issues, including persistent malaise and low energy levels due to prolonged exposure to these hazardous substances. Wei’s ongoing medical condition has also prevented her from seeking employment or attending auditions, impacting her career opportunities.
Moreover, Wei faces restrictions in visiting her family in China due to her health circumstances, further complicating her emotional well-being. The notice of intent to sue was formally filed against multiple entities within MSU, including the Board of Trustees, the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, and the Department of Horticulture, in October 2024.
Wei and her legal team are scheduled to hold a press conference on August 18, 2025, to discuss the upcoming lawsuit in further detail. The Greenlight Law Firm, representing Wei, emphasizes that the university neglected its own safety protocols, thereby exposing her to dangerous chemicals without proper protective measures or safety training, despite her expressed concerns.
As of now, Michigan State University has not issued any public response to inquiries concerning the lawsuit or the allegations made by Wei.
Key Highlights of the Case
- Wei is suing MSU for $100 million due to thyroid cancer linked to chemical exposure.
- Thyroid cancer diagnosed on July 11, 2024, with prior biopsy results on June 26, 2024.
- Wei conducted research with chemicals known to increase cancer risk.
- Claims of negligence and failure to provide safety measures by MSU.
- Press conference scheduled for August 18, 2025, to announce further details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the allegations against Michigan State University?
LingLong Wei alleges that MSU failed to provide adequate safety measures, including personal protective equipment and proper training, while she was exposed to hazardous chemicals during her studies, which she claims contributed to her thyroid cancer diagnosis.
When was LingLong Wei diagnosed with thyroid cancer?
LingLong Wei was diagnosed with thyroid cancer on July 11, 2024, after a biopsy identified cancerous cells on June 26, 2024.
What chemicals were involved in Wei’s research?
Wei conducted research using several hazardous pesticides and herbicides, including paraquat dichloride, glyphosate, and oxyfluorfen, all of which are known to pose an increased risk for developing thyroid cancer.
Key Features Overview
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Plaintiff | LingLong Wei |
| Amount Sued For | $100 million |
| Diagnosis | Thyroid cancer, diagnosed July 11, 2024 |
| Research Period | 2008 to 2011 |
| Chemicals Involved | Paraquat dichloride, glyphosate, oxyfluorfen |
| Legal Representation | Greenlight Law Firm |
| Press Conference Date | August 18, 2025 |
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Additional Resources
- UpNorthLive: MSU Lawsuit
- WWMT: MSU Lawsuit Announcement
- Hindustan Times: LingLong Wei Lawsuit
- Google Search: LingLong Wei MSU Lawsuit
- Wikipedia: Thyroid Cancer
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