35yrs Wrongfully Convicted, Facing Cancer 5th Time

My name is Paul Hildwin, and I spent 35 years in prison for a murder I did not commit. For 29 of those years, I was on death row. The last six, I spent in county jail after my conviction was overturned, waiting to be released. 

I was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma in 2006, an incurable cancer that affects the immune system. During my incarceration, I fought and overcame my cancer four times, while also fighting for my freedom. On March 9, 2020, I finally walked out of prison as a free man. 

These past two years I have had to overcome many obstacles, while also starting my life over again. Two weeks ago I was told that my cancer has returned for a 5th time, and that it needed to be treated quickly and aggressively. At this time, I have already begun my chemo treatment. Due to my health issues and my record, I am not able to work and cover basic living expenses.

For decades, I have told the truth — that I am innocent. And in 2003, after the Innocence Project took on my case and sought new DNA testing, my innocence was proven — my DNA did not match the person who committed the murder and sexual assault I was convicted of in 1986. In 2010, testing showed not only that my DNA did not match the evidence, but that the victim's ex-boyfriend, who had been convicted of 16 counts of sexual battery of a minor, was a direct match.

In 2014, the Florida Supreme Court overturned my conviction based on this new evidence and granted me a retrial. And for the next six years, I was stuck in jail awaiting a decision from the courts while my attorneys Nina Morrison and Lyann Goudie fought for my release. 

By then, I was tired; tired of fighting for my innocence, tired of fighting for my health. I didn’t have anything else left. So, I decided to take a plea deal for a lesser charge and life probation. It was a very difficult decision to make, but I wanted my freedom more than anything. Unfortunately, because I accepted a plea deal for my freedom, I am ineligible for exoneration at this time. I am now facing the fifth battle for my life and health and would appreciate your support — and if you’re not able, even words of encouragement would be much appreciated.