The time is now, and we look to you to make the critical determination for all Americans so that we may be insured at a fair and comparable rate so that not one of us is left behind to fend for ourselves against the curse of cancer as well as all other illnesses that have rendered many of us alone in our fight for life.
My mother died at age 56 of cancer without health insurance and was approved for MediCal following her death. I was told at an emergency room that it would be up to the doctor as to whether he would treat my son because I did not have the co-pay the insurance required ? my son was having an asthma attack and he was 18 months old.
Americans should not be forced to beg, as I am doing now, so that we all will know justice in health care. Our country prides itself on “freedom and justice for all,” yet that has been an American dream, so far.
A new federal study shows that health care spending rose to an estimated $2.5 trillion in 2009, or $8,047 per person ? and is now projected to nearly double by 2019.
Our elected representatives can no longer look the other way as insurance companies are bankrupting our country, while at the very same time denying Americans the health care they need.
They should stand up as men and women of integrity; living in this wonderful and wealthy nation to say “no more!” The politicians should say, “We are going to see to it that we represent all Americans,” rather than to be most concerned about their our own pockets. Men, women, and children are dying while they are waiting to do the right thing for them.
I believe that the first question that should be asked of any politician is, “Are you a Christian?” With that in mind, it is of utmost importance to do as Jesus. The time is now to stand up for those you represent, unafraid to make this a nation of caring and doing, just as Jesus did, so that no American dies because he/she has no money to pay.
Beverly Owen
Clearlake
