These stories come from the real people who live with a broken health care system. Some have health insurance and some do not. Many of these stories suggest potential solutions* that lead to quality, affordable health care we can count on. One thing we all agree on is that the we cannot trust the insurance industry to fix themselves. To learn more about what Health Care for America Now stands for read our Statement of Common Purpose.
We wanted to give you a chance to speak for yourself, in your own voice, about the need for Health Care for America Now. Do you have something to say? Tell us your story.
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Pam
Chandler, AZ
This is actually a story about my sister, Cathy. She broke her leg in an accident and the injury was so severe it required surgery. She didn't have insurance because the premiums were too high to afford. She had the first surgery, but then the wound became infected and she was forced to go back to the hospital for more treatment and surgeries. She nearly lost her foot. They placed her in a halo and on a wound-vac to clean out the infected tissue and encourage growth of new tissue. The hole in her ankle was the size of a golfball. They would not allow her to take the wound-vac home, which would have been less costly. Instead, they forced her to stay in the hospital for nearly 2 MONTHS, confined to her bed, attached to this wound-vac. Needless to say, the bills were unimaginable. She had to file for bankruptcy to keep from losing her house and retirement. This has been both financially and emotionally devastating for her. She needs physical therapy, but can't afford it. She has also developed a thyroid problem, and won't seek medical help for fear she will not be able to afford it. This has to STOP!!!!!!!!!! I don't have a ton of money, but, I will do anything I have to to help change the way the health care system is run in this country. It is a disgrace. Everyone in that industry should be forced to watch "Sicko" - at least it shows how other countries are taking care of their residents. Thank you.
Pam Swanstrom - Chandler, AZ
*Health Care for America Now is not responsible for the content of these stories. These stories are submitted by individuals in the online audience and have been edited in some cases. Health Care For America Now does not endorse any of the solutions or policy positions suggested in the content of these stories. Health Care for America Now is a coalition of organizations that agree to the Statement of Common Purpose.
See our coalition partner list.
Read the Statement of Common Purpose.
