shAARP Talk: Observations from AARP

pol - scmoll - i don't care what a bunch of uninformed people thnk about an issue - if health care needs improvement, thatis a market not a government issue - government needs to work on the post offcvie and driver's license bureau - get that right before they start telling me about my health - if people think they need health care insurance, ask them what sacrifice in their life they are willing to make to buy it - if they don't want to make the necessary commitment to buy this product - tough - shut up - you want something for nothing

I was diagnosed with hepatitis C in 2000. I have not had health insurance since 2001. I try and eat healthy yet I have no way of knowing how my disease is progressing because it is not something I can get treatment for at an emergency room.

In 2003 I had severe headaches. I went to the emergency room and I was told after an MRI that I had a brain tumor. Again, no health insurance for follow up treatment and I can not afford to pay for the treatment. It is operable. Has it grown? I do not know.

In 2006 I felt what could only be described as a muscle pull above my right hip, below my stomach. I was scared to death it was my liver from my Hep C. I went to the emergency room and found out I have a hernia. It is still there and it is uncomfortable but it has not yet twisted which will (from what I am told) be excruciating. Only then I can seek treatment from the emergency room.

I have sought private healthcare and have been turned down because of my Hep C. I tried to go on disability because my Hep C causes bouts of exhaustion and I was turned down.

I am 48 years old and I have 3 children 2 boys 17 and 14 and my daughter who is 11. I now fear that I may not see her graduate from high school because of these health issues. If I could get some treatment at least I would be able to structure my families future around what may be coming. So I live in fear. Not for myself, but for the uncertainty my family faces!

I know my ailments are treatable. I am in a position where I have to wait until they are unbearable!

I am not posting these facts for pity. I know I am one in an army of people who are uninsurable. I am self employed and pay all of my taxes. So save the “get a job with benefits” diatribe.

I agree completely with the initial comment. You mention that health care and financial security are basic needs of US citizens on your home page, but then you are demanding the government act as if it is a right of US citizens. Nothing in the Constitution of The United States says health care is a right guaranteed by the govenment. Be careful what you ask for. Do you really want the govenment to provide your health care? Name me one government program run well or efficiently. This site is a thinly veiled Pro-Democrat site. I am disappointed.

People that are truly in need should be assisted with health care. People who are lazy should not. Some people are responsible with their money and spend it on essentials including health care. They have also learned to save some money throughout life in order to be self sufficient when they retire. The ant and the grasshopper fable rings true. IF the government decides to take on everyone's problems at any stage of their life there won't be any ants, will there?
Why should the taxpayer pay the health care costs of someone who CHOOSES to spend his money on cigarettes, booze, drugs, etc. or the guy that drives a $40,000 vehicle but can't afford his own insurance? People that need help because of conditions beyond their control should be helped. People that are lazy or make irresponsible choices should not.