For 34 long years, from the age of sixteen until he was finally deemed disabled at fifty, Fred navigated life without health insurance. He vividly recalls the stress and the unhealthy coping mechanisms that led to high blood pressure, compounding his existing asthma. The lack of access to timely healthcare, because Florida has not expanded  Medicaid, meant his health declined unnecessarily.

When Medicaid finally came into his life in 2020 following the disability determination, it was a turning point. His primary care physician, who had treated him without insurance for years, was finally able to conduct thorough tests, which revealed a diagnosis of diabetes. Fred is certain that without Medicaid, this silent killer would have gone undetected, with potentially devastating consequences.

Medicaid is not just a safety net for Fred; it’s a program that “saved his life” and continues to “keep him alive.” It provides access to essential medications and care that he could not afford on his limited Supplemental Security Income of $650 a month, an amount insufficient even for basic living expenses.

The prospect of Medicaid cuts by Congress fills Fred with dread, evoking fears of financial and emotional hardship that exacerbate his existing anxiety. Losing his coverage would mean a return to the desperate days of “begging for care,” a stark contrast to his current access and stability. He worries about losing access to his life-sustaining medications and the crucial support for managing his diabetes.

Fred’s experience is not unique. His story echoes the struggles of thousands who depend on Medicaid to manage chronic illness, care for family, and live with dignity. The threat of cuts is not just a policy debate; it’s a matter of life and death for people like Fred, whose health and stability hang in the balance.

If you believe everyone deserves access to essential care, now is the moment to act. Call your elected officials at 866-426-2631. Tell them Fred’s story, and your own. Urge them to protect Medicaid, safeguard our communities, and ensure that no one is forced to choose between their health and their future. Your voice can make the difference.