Panel of Special Masters Wrap Up Hearings With I-35W Bridge Collapse Victims

Many say the process has helped them heal.

Victims of the Interstate 35W bridge collapse finished telling their stories to a special panel this week, but their pain continues as they wait to hear how funds set aside to help them will be distributed. Still, many say the process has helped them heal.

In the past three months, a panel of "special masters" - chairwoman Susan Holden, Steven Kirsch and Mike Tewksbury - have immersed themselves in the lives of people who were profoundly affected by the Aug. 1, 2007, bridge collapse. The three experienced personal injury lawyers were appointed to evaluate each victim's circumstances and divide $36.6 million among 179 claims.