November 4, 2009 in Letters

Work ethic not fail-safe

The Spokesman-Review

How ironic that the letter from Mr. Paul Swanson (Oct. 29) appeared in the same issue as the article “Long road to healing” featuring the tragic story of Sean Stanelun and Dawn Picken.

According to Mr. Swanson, “most of us have worked hard to get where we are by paying bills … being responsible … earning and paying our own health insurance.” This is clearly an insult to Mr. Stanelun and Ms. Picken and for the rest of us who follow this work ethic but when tragedy strikes we are all at the mercy of ruthless insurance companies, excessive medical costs and possible bankruptcy.

Fortunately not everyone thinks that health care for all is theft. I believe the majority wish to see widespread health care reform, and that’s what I will call and tell our senators. My thoughts and prayers are with this family, and fortunately there are truly caring people in this community who will help them.