At 27 years old, I am a recent cancer survivor. After being diagnosed last year, I focused all my energy on my health, well-being and recovery. As a survivor, I have been focused on what’s next in my life, specifically my career and education.
I recently took a new job to advance my career. The Affordable Care Act allowed me to take that position without hesitation because I didn’t have to worry about not qualifying for health insurance coverage due to a pre-existing condition. But, what if I want to take the next step to get my doctorate? I should not be deterred from pursuing a higher education because it may jeopardize my chance of getting affordable and quality health coverage.
As Congress discusses repeal and replacement of the health care law, we all must understand that we cannot afford to go back to a time when cancer patients and our families do not have reliable access to health insurance.
I am grateful there is bipartisan consensus to maintain these critical patient protections, but if Congress moves to repeal the law without an adequate and immediate replacement, the health care market could collapse, leaving vulnerable people, like me, with gaps in coverage.
Sens. Alexander and Corker, please don’t repeal the Affordable Care Act without an adequate replacement. We must guarantee uninterrupted and meaningful health insurance coverage for cancer patients, survivors, and those at risk of one day developing a disease.
