One small step for me... A giant leap for water pressure!?
Good Afternoon All;
My hot water heater should once again be up and running, and it is high time for me to get showered.
I have a short. It has been found, rigged, but not fixed entirely. (Wonder if duct tape will work)? hehehe In the meanwhile I have used 2 larger fuses... They will work a bit- for a while; (until I feel like crawling down there again anyway)...
Pa always said it's a wasted day if we are not furthering our education in some way, shape, or form.
Through my readings today, I have learned lots once again.
Notably, and memorably, to have read Brian Richards letter.
It is that letter I wish to share with you today.
Here is his letter in its entirety:
****
Dear Senator Brown,
You do not represent me, my views, the views of the people of the State of Michigan or the people of the United States of America.
You misrepresent your own importance. You misrepresent the will of the people. You misrepresent the Constitution of the United States of America.
You are a liar.
I have no time for your start over policy. It is a deadly policy.
Five months ago I was diagnosed with cancer.
Less than sixty days after that diagnosis I received notification that my health insurance was cancelled. After forty years of good health and paying high insurance premiums, it came time for me to collect on that insurance contract and the insurance company failed in their obligations to me. People like you support that kind of irresponsibility.
I am a dead man because of this.
I have no appeal.
A sex offender on death row has more rights than I do.
Imagine that, Senator -- you support laws that give more rights to death row inmates than to law-abiding citizens who are ill.
What a shame. What a sham.
Senator, you are a liar, a killer and a fiend.
Brian Richards
Kalamazoo, Michigan
****
Brian Richards is not alone!
His response to the article below has me saddened; and hoping that the future of his health can be improved. Somehow.
"We are closer than ever to historic health insurance reform – reform that will extend coverage to more than 30 million Americans, provide security and stability to those who have health insurance, and shift power from insurance companies to consumers."
I ask you again, to tell me why we do not support this?
Someone?
Anyone?
Because for the life of me, and with exception to a few radical right wing politico's on Multiply, I have NOT heard from a single one of my non-blogging friends or neighbors that do not support the Public Option, or HealthCare reform.
Like I said in yesterdays blog comments, Washington's reluctance to pass this reform has made us the laughingstock of the world.
And that is an awful fact, Pa, but I learned it anyway.
Bring it.
Stay well my friends.
Love to all.
XOXO
Me
Today, as noted on all our top pages, you will see that the Republicans are turning their rhetoric away from Healthcare... And deciding it's time for us to focus our energies on education, jobs, etc...
ReplyDelete...ANYthing but Healthcare reform...
What a bunch of mindless ninnies and spineless"hoo~has" they are!
And like little puppets, many of us will fall for it.
FOCUS people. Focus.
XOXO
Me
I have previously commented these words in another blog, but am putting them here also:
ReplyDeletePeople before profits.
I used to tell people that I was 'middle of the road and leaning left', politically, but after the pla$tic people, men and women, that I have seen throughout this healthcare bill, I am found that I am very "left" on this issue.
People have blocked me from their blogs to prevent me from linking them to the truth.
Actually blocking me is a good thing, because in order to do so they have to make their entire blog 'private' and just show it to a few people. Therefore their republican crap about healthcare is not searchable on the net. hehehe
XOXO
Mama D.
***
www.mcclatchydc.com
"If the public option is the cost, who needs a single Republican vote? Without it, this is just a cash cow for insurance companies- which stand to "gain enormously" from the bill.
The only ways to cut the cost of health care is to take the savings out of either or both the insurance companies' or drug manufacturer's profits, or reduce treatments. If these groups stand to "gain enormously", then consumers stand to lose enormously."
That's a fact!
***
This, from talking points memo,:
"No matter what form the bill ultimately takes (especially if it's one that makes fiscal sense and increases the number covered), the GOP will oppose it. The better the final bill appears, the more imperative that they kill it.
If any such bill passes, the President will get the credit, and the GOP has to prevent that at all costs. It would sink them in 2010 and 2012, and who knows how long after that.
The reason the GOP is terrified of health care reform is that it will put the lie to their libertarian claptrap that the government cannot do anything. If universal health care became a reality, it would be VERY popular (it is in England, France, and Canada), and the Republicans would be virtually unelectable for the next generation.
It is too bad the Democrats are so *&@% spineless that they cannot see that. The Republicans have thrown everything they can against the public option, yet the polls show that Americans still want the public option in the health care reform bill. Thus, the public is not listening to the Republicans. Too many Democrats in the Senate, however, are not listening to the voters."
People are simply confused about what all is included in those "package" deals when they are trying push a bill through. In order for us to get that much needed Health Reform bill passed, what else are we gonna get along with it? Do you have the link somewhere that explains the whole "kit and kaboodle" of that bill? I know they said it was a long-long stack of things to read, and I can only assume that those who did manage to wade through it all found some things in there that the public does not want. Or in the least, would regret having it in order to get the Health reform. I for one, would love to know what that would be. They never tell us everything. Or they word things in a way that no one would be able to understand their double-talk. Then once they get what "They" want, the rest of us is screwed. More than likely, by some little "twisting clause" that will allow them to change it again without us knowing about it and then they can say "We got what we voted for."
ReplyDeleteI need Health care in the worst way. Along with most of the population here in the United States. It's hard to STAY Healthy, if we cannot go to a doctor to confirm everything is ok, or to go to a doctor to help fix something from getting worse. It almost seems as if they want all the "broken" people to go ahead and die to get us out of the way, by denying us the medical care we so desperately need.
Oh...and congrats on figuring out the hot water heater dilemma. Yes...duct tape will work for anything. Almost. I still wish I was the one who invented that stuff. Who'd a thought that something so simple could fix so many things. Too bad we can't use it on our broken health care system.
that poor man and all the poor people who do not have any kind of coverage, it is not right! people are afraid of this reform because they think that the government is going to dictate to the doctor's how much care and what kind they can give. people are worried - the ones who do have insurance that they will no longer be able to seek out specialists. even some doctors are worried that they won't be allowed to make money, and after all they should be allowed to make money! they went to school for all those years and do continue with schooling during their practice, when new techniques and types of surgeries/treatments come about. I think that is what is holding people back and like Peachie said there is much confusion as to what is in the package deals.
ReplyDeleteThe Healthcare Reform Bill has given me a headache along with everyone else. We hold our breath each time we take Drew to the Dr that the insurance company has decided he's been out on his leave of absence from school too long and has dropped his coverage. Heaven knows what we will do when that happens..it will take an act of God to get him covered with his health issues under private insurance..and a pot of gold to pay for it.
ReplyDeleteWell done blog.
ReplyDeleteThey say those without insurance will still get help. Yes, they might, but they still get bills that are not covered by welfare/medicare and etc agencies. Last year when my daughter had surgery, she had insurance, but she had to quit her job and so she had nothing. No follow ups from the surgery, not necessary medications, no nothing. Being a single person and no disabled, you get NOTHING. You do get food stamps and THAT'S IT!!! Until these problems hit home with the senators and etc, they just 'don't get it'.
Why should they? They have insurance!!!!!
I will be back to read this after my head is better... Just tried to get through it and the words started blurring and getting all bent out of shap.... so I'm going to try to get some rest and hopefully my vission returns....
ReplyDeletelove you much much,
~Casey
The letter from Brian Richards hits a person in the gut. Thanks for sharing it.
ReplyDelete*hugs*
ReplyDeleteXOXOXOOx
Pea.
Sweet PeachieBaby;
ReplyDeleteNothing wrong with the hot water heater. I shut it off myself because the fuse went out again in the pumphouse. Though I have water constantly, I do not trust the "artesian" factor enough to keep my water heater full, (I don't want the elements burning out on me over a $0.79 fuse).
As for your HC question, you would need to go back a few months; either go to my top page under the "HealthCare and Politics" tab. Or click this, (http://flintville.multiply.com/links/item/210).
The tab will give you many articles, perhaps even more specific than you want here.
People are confused?!? You bet they are! And it is because of all the fookin' drivel that is being passed on, and forwarded on and on and on.
Most are confused because they do not take the time necessary to research and READ- (and to look up that which they do not understand)!
Lots play games- that of which I am guilty of too- But first MUST come the work. (We should have all learned that much by kindergarten).
Is it fun? Probably not.
Is it written on an 8 year old level? Nope.
Is it easy enough to learn about? YES!
Additionally, since I do not know whom to offend anymore, I would still pass the bill if it included some darn thing put in there by John McCain ie: replacing a basketball court lighting system with a more energy efficient one in Arizona to the tune of $20,000.
hehehe
Oh wait, he really did that!!!!
Now stop listening to the fearmongers already! (They are the ones that tell you that this bill will kill the elderly and the disabled)! That is a bunch of BS Peachie; nothing more and nothing less. Nobody is going to be denied healthcare if the public option is added back into the mix. That's the whole point of HealthCare reform!
As far as the "we got what we voted for" comment, as far as our president goes, I sure as hell hope so!
XOXO
Me
PS
A little bit of intelligence here also.
Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood says it quite well while trying to talk some sanity to his Republican brethren: "If I were still a member of Congress, I would proudly vote for the bill that President Barack Obama is championing and I would urge my colleagues to do the same, not because I don't believe in fiscal discipline, but because I do... ...The bill that will be voted on will reduce the deficit by about $1 trillion over the next two decades, and will reduce waste, fraud, and abuse in the health care system. It will slow the rate of growth in health care costs and put America back on the path toward fiscal sustainability. The bill will give families and small business owners greater control over their own health care. It will expand coverage to more than 31 million Americans and will include tax credits to individuals, families and small businesses, giving them the same choices that members of Congress have to purchase private coverage. It will create state-based exchanges that will bring competition and transparency to insurance markets. And it will put in place common-sense rules of the road to hold insurance companies accountable and <span style="font-weight: bold;"
Sweet Suzy;
ReplyDeleteHe is only ONE of millions and millions of people! And I just happened to see his letter in a comment.
Again, people deserve to be worried and afraid if they don't take the time to read and make themselves understand what is at stake.
I have heard the saying "ignorance is bliss" many times.
In the case of Healthcare reform, IGNORANCE IS DEATH"
My doctor hasn't been worried one iota, and I haven't seen where doctors have been. As explained to me, (and ONLY if it comes down to that), the doctors would be earning 'salary' instead of other wages. Either way they will make a very decent living. My own GP's point of view.
For others CLICK or go to http://www.pnhp.org/ (Physicians for a National Health Program).
XOXO
Me
PS
SEND A MESSAGE TO OBAMA:
‘Single payer is your answer, Mr. President’ “If anyone from either party has a better approach that will bring down premiums, bring down the deficit, cover the uninsured, strengthen Medicare for seniors, and stop insurance company abuses, let me know … I’m eager to hear it”. – President Obama, 1/27/10 The President’s State of the Union Address and the stalling of health care reform legislation in Congress in the wake of the Democratic defeat in Massachusetts has created a new opening for advocates of single payer national health insurance.
Margaret Flowers, MDDr. Quentin Young’s letter advocating Medicare for All appeared in the New York Times (below). Dr. Margaret Flowers’ heartfelt letter to the President and her attempt, with Dr. Carol Paris, to deliver the letter to the President in Baltimore resulted in their brief arrest and several media interviews. You can add your voice to the growing chorus calling for Medicare for All here. To the Editor, President Obama’s State of the Union address had a high point when he pledged that anyone with a “better approach that will bring down premiums, bring down the deficit, cover the uninsured, strengthen Medicare for seniors, and stop insurance company abuses, let me know.” Thank you, Mr. President. The answer is the reform supported by 65 percent of the public and even 59 percent of physicians. It’s remarkably simple, and the nation has already had 44 years of successful experience with it in financing health care for our elderly and the totally disabled. It is, of course, Medicare-for-all, single-payer, not-for-profit national health insurance. Its superiority lies in excluding profit-seeking insuranc
ReplyDeleteSweet Denise;
I am sorry that reading these stories scare you with respect to both your husband and your son. You are much like myself in that YOU HAVE LIVED IT too. It is damned scary.
Worse though if this does not get passed.
They can vote as early as today, so please contact your representatives and tell them how you expect them to vote. Tell them your own story.
Is it a pain in the backside? Yes.
(But if I did it, you can too). hehehe
Sending love and prayers all the way to Florida!
XOXO
Me
Sweet Stephanie!
ReplyDeleteSo glad to hear from you too!
I have a handful of friends on here alone that are sick already, DO NOT get the help they need! They will say it isn't so. (Unless they sell their cars, their homes etc). Not a viable option.
The status quo is not acceptable; nor is it sustainable for any of us, not only those that are ill, but ALL Americans.
As I replied to Peach, "The bill will give families and small business owners greater control over their own health care. It will expand coverage to more than 31 million Americans and will include tax credits to individuals, families and small businesses, giving them the same choices that members of Congress have to purchase private coverage."
XOXO
Me
Baby Girl;
ReplyDeleteI hope your head is much much better today! (And that all parts left are in proper working order). hehehe
I love you always.
XOXO
Me
ReplyDeleteSweet Mary;
You are most welcome!
I know we share a mind on this healthcare reform, but if you have a minute or three please contact your reps today?
XOXO
Me
ReplyDeleteRight backatcha Sweet Birthday Pea!
XOXO
Mama D.
ReplyDeleteFrom 'Organizing for America'
Spread the Facts
Under the Presidents reform plan:
If you have health insurance through your employer and you like your plan, you can keep it.
If you're a small business owner, you'll receive new tax credits that make it easier for you to provide coverage for employees if you choose to do so.
If you have Medicare, the President's plan guarantees that your benefits will not be cut, and the Medicare Trust Fund will be extended for more than 9 years.
If you're uninsured, you could receive a tax credit to help pay for coverage if needed -- part of the largest middle class tax cut for health care in history.
If you buy your own insurance, there will be new protections from insurance company abuses, and tax credits will make coverage more affordable.
The presidents plan GUARANTEES that:
You will never be denied coverage because of pre-existing conditions.You will never again be hit with arbitrary health insurance premium hikes.
If reform does not pass:
Up to 17 million more people will be uninsured by 2019.
Insurers can continue their massive and arbitrary premium rate increases --
such as Anthem Blue Cross raising rates for customers in California by nearly 40%,
and rates in Illinois going up by as much as 60%.
As many as 275,000 people could die prematurely over the next 10 years because they don't have health insurance.
The average family's health care costs will nearly double by 2020, from $13,000 to $24,000.
Call Congress!
Enter your zipcode here.
Everything we've worked for depends on winning this upcoming vote in the House of Representatives, and it's going to be very, very close.
There's no time to spare.
Call today and make it clear that Americans support reform.
XOXO
Me
This also, from PNHP.org
ReplyDeleteWhat the doctors have written- asking other physicians to send this on...
***
Open Letter to President Obama to Support Single-Payer Health Care
Dear President Obama:
We are physicians from across the spectrum of our profession; primary care doctors and specialists, public health experts and administrators. We work in hospitals and clinics, private practices and universities, corporations and public agencies. Some of us are young, still in training; others are greatly experienced, and some have held senior positions in American medicine.
We applaud you for reopening the national discussion of health care reform, and enthusiastically endorse your call for reform that would assure universal, comprehensive coverage at an affordable price, while improving the quality of care. Yet we are dismayed by recent developments in Washington. The single payer reform that could achieve our shared goals has been dismissed from consideration in favor of proposals that will neither fulfill your promises nor meet our patients’ urgent needs.
Like most of our colleagues and the majority of the general public, we believe that single-payer reform is the standard against which other health reforms should be measured. Sound single payer proposals have been introduced in both the House of Representatives (H.R. 676, The U.S National Health Care Act) and the Senate (S. 703, The American Health Security Act of 2009).
Single payer reform, as embodied in these bills, would eliminate the bewildering patchwork of private insurance plans with their exorbitant overhead and profits, as well as the costly paperwork burdens they impose on providers. These savings on bureaucracy - nearly $400 billion annually – are sufficient to cover all of the uninsured and to provide first dollar coverage for all Americans. No other approach can provide comparable coverage at a cost our nation can afford.
Mr. President, you once embraced a single payer reform that would threaten private insurers, and foresaw its passage if Democrats regained control of the House, the Senate and the White House. These conditions have been met. Yet now Democrats propose diverting additional billions to private insurers by requiring middle class Americans to purchase defective policies from these firms – policies with so many gaps and loopholes that they currently leave millions of our insured patients vulnerable to financial ruin.
Moreover, a “public plan option” would do little to mitigate the damage of a reform that perpetuates private insurers’ dominant role. Even a robust public option would forego 90% of the bureaucratic savings achievable under single payer. And a kinder, gentler public option would quickly fail in a health care marketplace where competition involves a race to the bottom, not the top, where insurers compete by NOT paying for care. But HHS Secretary Sebelius has made clear that any public option will be far worse than that, specifically crafted to prevent it from evolving to a single payer. This kind of public option would amount to a government-run clone of private insurance, reproducing the worst features of private plans.
Mr. President, we ask that you join us in endorsing single payer reform as the only practicable means to reach our shared goals, and H.R. 676 and S. 703 as the appropriate starting point for debate in the House and Senate.
Respectfully,