In 1996, I was diagnosed with pulmonary symptoms that have progressed to what has been diagnosed as “Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease.” The disease resulted in my having to take sick time from a job that did not pay for “sick time.” In addition, the cost of the monthly premiums, deductibles, and co-payments eventually forced me into bankruptcy. It was only then that I became eligible for Medicare and Medi-Cal.

I then discovered that fewer health care providers are accepting these two kinds of insurance. I am in constant fear that I will lose the Medicare and Medi-Cal Benefits even though the combination of the two would classify me as “under-insured”!

The human condition must transcend itself to a position of Universal Health Care with no strings attached.

Aurelio M. Bocanegra
Santa Barbara, California