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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Sonja
Indianapolis, IN
At 14, I was diagnosed with end stage renal failure. I have spent over 10 years of my life on dialysis. I've had two strokes. I'm on my 4th kidney transplant. Luckily, this one is successful and I have had no problems with it in the three years I've had it. I was diagnosed with osteoporosis and arthritis at 19. I am on medications that cost about $1200 a month. I get my blood drawn monthly to make sure my kidney is functioning properly. I am at a very high risk for infection and illness because of my anti-rejection medications.
I am now 31. I haven't really held a job since I was 17. When my fiancÂŽ lost his job last year, I looked into working. I knew I would lose my state health insurance coverage, so I investigated options before I went into the workplace. I found that the state I live in- Indiana- does offer a high risk insurance program. I would have had to pay over $600/month. No other insurance companies would cover me, at least not where my doctors or transplant hospitals were in the plans.
Being a senior in college, going only half time, it just wasn't worth it. I decided to hold off until after I got my degree. Having to make a choice between having insurance coverage or working is just ridiculous.
*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.
