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[luvtheGWN]

29. Jill, so sorry about your sister, and especially sorry

that she could not afford treatment that would keep her alive.
The story I'm about to tell you is meant to emphasize your last paragraph:
My husband of 47 years died a month ago today. He had been feeling ill for some months and had seen many specialists, the last one being an oncologist who ordered several tests (bone marrow biopsy, scans etc.) to determine lymphoma. Having died very suddenly of a stroke in the middle of the night at home in bed, he was spared the treatment options being suggested -- radiation, chemo, steroids etc.
All of this is to say that all his doctor apps, hospital visits,visiting nurse over 3 months, tests etc. cost him $0, because we are fortunate enough to live in a country that believes healthcare is a right, and not just a privilege. Oh, we were out of pocket $45 for each of 2 ambulance rides. His final one was to the hospital for an official doctor's pronouncement, but there was no charge for that.

Nine years ago, I was diagnosed with breast cancer. Besides the diagnostic tests, I underwent 2 surgeries, 6 chemo treatments, 10 shots of neupogen between each treatment (which my darling husband gave me), anti-nausea meds and steroids, visiting nurse once a week for almost 3 months, umpteen doctor visits, blood tests and so on. This also cost me $0.

I have several American pals who were going through the same thing (we met on-line) and, while most of them had great employer-based insurance, a few of them did not. Some are still struggling to pay off their bills because of a horrid disease that doesn't choose you based on your ability to pay.

To all DUers -- do what Jill says: Please, please, please fight for healthcare for all. It's just criminal that the most successful country in the world lets so many of its citizens suffer and die.