MomsRising collects stories from our members all across the U.S. about how health policies are impacting families. Here is a powerful story about the need to make sure everyone has access to quality, affordable health care from a MomsRising volunteer in Florida.

----

Five years ago I developed excruciating pain out of the blue. I was blessed enough to be able to call an ambulance and stay in the hospital for a week. Even though I have Medicaid insurance, the doctors and nurses never made me feel less-than anyone else. I never felt like they were judging me as a “poor person.” While I was in the hospital, I learned that I have a very low iron deficiency, and could have died! 

Although I work part-time, I have depended on Medicaid, and it has been my life saver! Medicaid has also meant that my three kids have been able to receive medical care. I have never taken advantage of Medicaid. Before I went to the hospital five years ago, I was always healthy, and just used Medicaid for wellness visits for my children and myself. Because of Medicaid, I never had to worry about my children being sick, and was able to take them to the doctor every year for a check up. 

I am thankful that I am on Medicaid since it saved my life five years ago when I really needed help. I felt very well taken care of when I was in the hospital; it really was a positive experience. I hope that other single moms or single dads are able to have the same type of experience when they get sick and need medical care. Helping the less fortunate, which Medicaid does, is what America is all about. 

----

Does your family have a health care story? Personal experiences are powerful and can make a HUGE difference in helping elected leaders and others understand how health care policies impact families. Have you or a family member:

• Had COVID-19 (coronavirus) and had to receive treatment?

• Had a ‘pre-existing condition’ like asthma, diabetes, or high blood pressure (or even a c-section)?

• Gotten health insurance coverage through your state’s Marketplace or Medicaid program?

• Had an illness or disability that requires expensive prescription drugs or frequent medical visits, treatments, or surgeries?

• Experienced discriminatory behavior from a medical professional?

• Received a surprise medical bill after receiving medical treatment?

You can share your family's health care story here: https://action.momsrising.org/survey/healthcarestories_2020/