Representing our health needs

Last evening while watching the PBS news, a Washington state representative, Pramila Jayapal, from the 7th District was being interviewed about the “Medicare for All ” House Resolution 1384, which is to be presented in Congress. I felt so proud and inspired that a representative from Washington state was being a strong advocate for a comprehensive health system for all Americans. My cousin in Minot, North Dakota, had also seen the interview on PBS and was equally impressed. We both felt the bill should be supported.

I’m a retired nurse and very familiar with people being unable to have access to adequate health care due to no insurance, the inability to afford insurance or being denied because of pre-existing conditions. Also, the heartbreak for families dealing with mental health issues, substance abuse, and life-threatening illnesses such as cancer. No family is untouched. My youngest son was diagnosed with a very rare form of lymphoma in 2011. He is alive today because of the Affordable Care Act.

I want to urge all citizens to use critical thinking skills to learn about HR 1384 and contact your representatives and senators. The bill currently has 106 co-sponsors. I would love to see Washington state take the lead as an advocate for all American citizens being able to access comprehensive health care.

Janet Smith

Spokane