Without meaningful reform, more dreams will die

I know I am not alone, but my story proves that Congress needs to do more than simply regulate the health insurance industry. It needs to pass a health-care reform bill with a strong public option.

Two years ago, I was living the "American dream." I had an advanced education, a wonderful career, and I owned my own home. Then I became seriously ill.

I am 40 years old, living with a pre-existing medical condition, and unable to work. An out-of-court settlement helped me for a short time, but it also made me unqualified for Medicaid. What I, and many Americans, need is affordable heath insurance that we can purchase ourselves.

One more sickness and my debts will increase further, and the American dream will be an even more distant memory. Congress, I need a hand up, not a hand-out. Please make meaningful health-care reform a reality this year.

 

LISA MEKOVSKY
North Strabane