It is one of the most beautiful compensations of life, that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself .... Ralph Waldo Emerson:
I have talked to my friends about this for years (I'm only 30 haha)... but I feel the same way! GOOD LUCK with your journey... I pray you are successful... Maybe when you get married- I'll take over the next year :) Richele in NJ
Hi Terri! I hope you find a solution to your problems with health insurance. I, too, am single and struggling but thankfully don't have any serious health issues right now. I just want to say: Please be very careful who you marry. I hope you have a support team of friends who will thoroughly research any man who offers you his hand in marriage. There are a lot of predators out there who could torture you mentally, emotionally and physically once you've tied that knot. So please do everything you can to protect yourself. You deserve all the happiness in the world!! Good luck with everything. I will follow your story to see how you fare, and keep you in my thoughts and prayers. Sincerely, Shannon NY
Hey-I think with all these requests you have opened up pandora's box for all women in this situation-You could start a matchmaking entity for women with this same scenario-you have no idea how any women(beautiful women)in this same boat.Good luck in your endeavors and be careful and safe!! Lots of crazies out there!
Camille in Texas
We share your suffering. Wishing you all the best.God Bless,Patty & Edwww.familybusch.com
Terri All I can say is that you are my hero and I hope everything works out well for you! Liz in IL
Terri, Thank you, thank you, thank you for your courage and humor. You have taken a challenge and turned it into a positive by attacking one of the country's worst problems. You put a face on the true death panels, the insurance industry. I have Blue Cross and pay thousands for meds, tests, and procedures...and I'm healthy. I have to survive 3 years to get good coverage, Medicare. I would help you in a heartbeat, but I'm a bit older, probably your birth father's age, and not sure what my spousal coverage would be. I will look it up, so you will know if the Federal health program covers your condition. I have two children, one in college and an actor in New York. Thanks you so much for your courage. I will be sending up smoke (Sweetgrass, sage and pine) with prayers to the Creator for your healing. I'm spiritual, formerly Catholic. Be strong and keep the faith, a Higher Power is guiding you. Tony in OH
"commit a crime" is not a completely crazy position. The Eighth Amendment to The Constitution is the guiding rule for prisoners. Locking you up for committing a crime is not "Cruel and Unusual Punishment," but denying you medical care is. It has been done, and recently. There was an article in The Nation a few years ago that outlined the case of a woman in your situation who did commit a federal crime in order to get health care. Doing what you need to do to stay alive is perfectly normal. Gene in IL
I think it would be a powerful demonstration of the disgrace the American health system is, if large numbers of people would do what you are suggesting. I am a single guy with stable employment, and I could provide at least one person with health care through marriage. It would be a great opportunity to do something that means something good for the world. How can I help you, or others that may be interested, organize such an undertaking?Best Regards,Brian co
Heard you on Thom Hartmann.....we need to get our voices heard.....too many of us uninsured and living on the edge of bankruptcy.....please get more of the word out there and lets go to Washington to get the message to Congress.....Maria in FL
Keep up the fight - we're all pulling for you!! Susie in IL
Terri,I am writing to you becuase I couldn't sign your guestbook. All I wanted to tell you is YOU GO GIRL!!!!! I'm so proud that you are speaking the truth. The truth that no one listened or cared last year when you were begging for solutions. No one responded untill they seen they could make a buck off of your siituation. HORRIBLE HORRIBLE HORRIBLE!
I pray that you find love and insurance. I'm so glad to hear your friends were behind you. you never know girl, you may find insurance and love all in the same package. I pray you feel better in the days to come and always have treatment when needed.I too suffer from many physical problems at age 46. However, this isn't about me. HOPE YOU FIND ALL YOUR LOOKING FOR AND MORE! God Bless, Tammy Jo in Mo
Hi Terri,
You are a doll. I am not writing to apply for the proposal position. I am just writing to commend you on what you are doing. I do know how difficult it must he for you. I to have a dibilitating disorder with only health coverage through my local county. I am a widower and raising a daughter on survival benefits which comes to about $550.00 a month. I wish you all the luck in the world, and hope you find your night in shining armor(with great health insurance). God Bless!!!Sincerely,Guido
I wanted to tell you that I think you are brilliant! I have been in an emotionally abusive marriage to an alcoholic for two years now and stayed for no other reason than that he has great heath insurance. Don't get me wrong he goes to work every day and pays his bills, but so do Ioften pulling down double what he makes. The only difference is he has the insurance that I was not able to aquire for my needs having long term and genetic pre-existing health issues. I thought I was marrying a man that was very different than the reality of his drunken rages and need to constantly belittle all those around him, and not a day goes by that I don't think about the time I will have enough health insurance of my own or decent divorce settlement (all I would ask for is a few years insurance coverage)to walk out that door. I do not know that I would ever marry again, but if I did, you can be darn sure it would be for the love of a good man with GREAT HEALTH COVERAGE BENIFITS!!! PS have you considered launching a dating site based on your idea? I mean they have dating sites aimed at pet lovers, millionairs, or raw chemistry....why not insurance? Best of Luck to you :) Dianna in AR
THE COURAGE TO SPEAK OUT & SEARCH FOR WHAT YOU NEED. I CAN'T IMAGINE THE NEGATIVITY YOU HAVE BEEN RECEIVING...HOLD YOUR HEAD UP & PEACE TO YOU!!GOOD LUCK!!!! Martha in Ga
Hello, no this is not a marraige proposal, however,I was compelled to comment on your situation. I think it was a very novel ideal to approach your current situation. I just wanted to say that I am hoping and praying that what you desire comes to be. I realize at times the task may feel insurmountable , nonehteless, you will strive and persever.You were designed for greatness, which you will achieve. That's your goal, stick to it. Ignore the people who say "nahhh"...My goal was to retire at 45 and people thought I wouldn't or couldn't do it. Guess what? The were right...I did it at 44, So stay in there. Folks are pulling for you. Eric in Ca
Best wishes to you Girl.I do hope this all works out well for you.Thank you for championing this very important cause for all of us.No need to reply. Just know that many support you.Regards,martin in Ga
I think what you are doing is great. Someone should have said something a long time ago. I also have a pre exsisting condition that prevents me from buying health insurance. You dont know how important health insurance is until you dont have it anymore. I hope you can continue on bringing this message to those stupid Republican law makers in Washington. After all everyone of those people in Congress have very good health care benafits. David in Az
I just wanted to say that I wish you all the luck in the world.I am also living without health insurance and a single mother of three. I think you are one amazing lady. I hope you find love and insurance!! Thank you! Amanda Mi
I seen your story on my aol home page. I felt compelled to take a moment and pray that you will reach your goal! You are a beautiful woman and I certainly hope you reach your goal along with the blessing that you deserve. Just maybe- because you put yourself out there, our government will realize the position that millions of Americans find ourselves in with health care. God bless. Heather in VA
Had to email Very sorry I dont have Insurance. Im great guy though.
I am in the same situation as you. Please keep this going maybe something good will come out this wonderful attention that you are getting Thank you. Ps I would love to a part of a movement a peoples movement. You have started something please please don't stop. Be the voice... Be the voice Lyndon in OH
I am sorry your having to suffer so badly in a country that can land a spacefraft on mars but yet cannot help our own people. If it were not for my policy I'd be in your position in a differnet way. My prayers for you,Noah in NY
It is sad that health care in the US is this way and the president we have now will only make it worse but I will add you to my prayers and I really hope you can find someone that you can be happy with and wish you all the luck in the world but if You dont find what you are looking for let me know I have really good insurance and even though I am a little older (52) i would marry you in a heartbeat You are a very beautiful woman so good luck and any man would be lucky to have you by his side. Hugs Dale in TX
You are a bold and BRAVE woman - I hope that through this - you not only get the health insurance you need - but that you find the man of your dreams. You go girl!!! I will pray for you....Linda In Ca
Your situation is so sad and unjust. You are a very beautiful lady and should not have to resort to the extreme measures you are just for health insurance. I hope you find someone who is right for you and with which you have true love. I hope you don't have to settle for just health insurance. Joe in Va
Hello saw your story on our news. I can understand but I am married but can not get insurance also. How many of us are out there with Cobra about to expire and stories our Gov does not want to hear and count. What can all americans do to have their stories heard by our congress ? It might be better for all the stories to be told and then submit how bad it is in this Country and maybe some one will pass a right to have health care. I am willing to help if you want to start a site to see how many people are in need. Thanks , Sincerly a grandmother who will also loose Cobra soon with no recourse.Pamela in KY
Comments : You are very courageous woman. Keep on fighting for the cause.
BTW, if you find good husband for the insurance, please let me know.
I need one too. Dc
You go Sister! I'm in the same situation. You are awesome! We need a national registry for those who will marry for health insurance. Sooo awesome.Take care,Carolyn in UT
I'll just be fast so I don't take away time from your many potiental suitors. :) I just wanted t osend you support from over here in Oz! It still confuzzles us to see our American neighbours go without basic healthcare rights...
If all else fails, come to Australia and marry an Aussie! We'll care for you for free and gladly do so, because it could be us, or our kid, or someone we love who needs help the next day!Sarah in Australia
I am awed by your strength and wish you much luck in finding a man to marry you. If I were single, I would. I don't see why someone wouldn't marry you and provide you the care you need. I too am a republican and hope this mess with healthcare gets better. Good luck to you and Godspeed. Edward in FL
I just wanted to reach out and say that I admire what you are doing. Many people have been in this situation and it is never mentioned in the media. I myself married my husband 8 years ago for health insurance. I was a pregnant and as a college student on my parent's health insurance, I did not qualify for prenatal care. Since I was a dependent still, I did not qualify for medicaid because of my parent's income. I married my boyfriend for my pregnancy.
I am glad you are coming forward and taking a stand like this. I would offer to help you but i am in canada. It also seems more of a stand to prove a point. I honestly would hate to live in the US with your condition. Just keep in mind you can always come up north to live. Most of my family is in arizona and i cannot bring myself to live down there because of the health care system. Jay Canada
Wow...such a brave thing you've done here. I am in the exact same position as you...maintaining my Hippa is rapidly eating into what money I have left from the divorce. Only, I can't work at all. I see the same bleak future as you, and worry about it often. From the bottom of my heart, I hope some altruistic soul answers your prayers. I know you have received a ton of emails. If you can find the time to write to me....just a few sentences....to let me know how this humbling, yet highly admirable effort of yours has panned out, I would be very grateful. If you have any left-over takers, I am very interested. I am curious to see if this might be a viable avenue for others with our plight. I am/was a marketing professional and could see myself extending this excellent idea during those times that I can be on the internet. It's just an idea...but you've started something fantastic here. If all of this is overwhelming right now, please at least let me know if it worked for you! You're in my prayers and I hope your prayers are soon answered.
Big Hugs! Mya in CA
Just have to tell you good luck and thank you. (I've not had health insurance for about twenty years, I cried when I heard on the news that the health care reform wasn't going to happen.)Carmen Mi
I'm almost in the same boat as you are. I also have several autoimmune disorders and my cobra will too run out soon. If you need help with letter writing, email campaigns, stuffing envelopes- anything. I will help you Cathy Ca
was deeply moved when I read about your insurance situation and the creative way you are dealing with it.
Like you, I will be losing my medical coverage soon as a result of my pending divorce. I'm a 54-year-old, self-employed hotel broker with a son who just turned 11. Fortunatly, my son (Evan) will still be covered.
Although I'm unable to assist with your insurance challenge, I salute your creativity and THANK YOU for calling attention to this serious national crisis.
The best thing I can (and will) do is to pray that you will soon find a wonderful husband...with great insurance, of course!
In addition to your honesty, intelligence and creativity the fact that you are BEAUTIFUL (and have a wonderful smile) shouldn't slow you down either.
I'm certain that when America learns of your plight, eligible suitors will be lining up at your door with insurance cards in hand. It is only fair that I warn you...should my own insurance status change, I will be cutting to the head of the line!
Best wishes and may God bless you,John Hillenburg in MO
just wanted to say I can understand your plight. I am also a single mom with a 6 year old son. I cannot get health insurance myself due to a pre-existing condition (ulcerative colitis). It is so frustrating. I hope you find what you are looking for, and perhaps any other good guy with health insurance you can send my way :-). LaurieAnn NC
Don't let those ***!!! people with negative feed back get you down. I am retired military and have the best insurance available and would love to have a woman like you to take care of. If I was a little younger I would fly to California find a white horse and ride to your rescue.
Keep the faith, there is someone out there for everyone. God is leading you in the direction of that person right now.
I think you are a good person with a big heart and would be proud to call you friend. Dale in CA
No response needed- I just wanted to drop you a line to say YOU GO GIRL! Your creative and innovative solution stems from the soul of a revolutionary! I hope you find someone amazing that will not only marry you to help your cause but who will take a genuine interest in the issues you have brought to everyone's attention. MARRY TERRI AND FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT! Good Luck Mary Ct Terri - You go Girl! I had to get a pacemaker a year ago at the age of 57. My employer is not planning on offering health insurance after April and I have found out that I am uninsurable. I have tried everything to get insurance and nothing is out there. Don't listen to all the comments people are making about how you could have coverage if you wanted too. I know what it's like. Hang in there and if this works for you I might be running my own ad.Good Luck and God Bless! Marge in Va I understand just where you are coming from. I have lupus, and at the age of 50 I have been divorced for almost ten years. He left, or rather asked me to leave after my second hospitalization. As my illness was stressing him out. I have run through all the money I had saved for retirement, my divorce settlement and have lost my home. I still live in it, but expect to be on the street any day now. If I could find a place for my beloved dog, I would end my own life in a minute Janice Ma goodness I had purchased a long term disability policy, but it is not enough to live on, let alone pay $1200/month for a health insurance policy. I have been trying to get approved for SS disability, but that hasn't happened. I feel like they hope people will die or give up, there are so many people who deserve it who get denied. I worked hard my whole life, now thru no fault of my own, I can't work or drive. I live with constant pain, and the added anxiety of wondering how I can get the medical care I need. Now I live 30 minutes from the Mayo Clinic, where there are two top experts for my condition. But I can't afford the visit. I wish you all the luck in the world to find love and get health insurance. If you would consider expanding your site to include other women, please let me know. Thanks, Nicola I know somewhat of what you are going through. I had to retire from the Sanford Fire Department after 38 years because of a lung disease from inhaling sulfuric acid on a call in 1976. I'm collecting S.S. Disability and Maine State Retirement. I was not able to get insurance because of my preexisting disease. I was going for deep lung scans 4 times a year at a cost of $3,300 each. My lungs are the age of someone over 100 yrs. old. I had a lot of political pull in Augusta from lobbying for firefighter bills. I took my story to them and they passed a bill that all insurance co. have to accept preexisting conditions. If you know any of your state senators you could go to them or even try to see Arnold. You could always move to Maine. Good luck You are showing great resolve and creativity in your quest for health care. Every American Senator, Congress person and elected official should be completed and totally embarrassed by your situation as well as your employer. If I lived in the US I would not be covered either and have similar limitations. In my case, it was the Government that poisoned me. Send this to the darned Republicans, will you??? I have been unemployed, homeless, and insurance-less for over a year now. I am a breast cancer survivor who cannot follow up with what I have been directed to assure my cancer will not return. Until the filthy Republicans let go their need to hurt our President, we will get nowhere! Kudos to this brave woman!coleen In I just wanted to say I commend you for doing this. I cried when I read your story. No one should have to worry about being able to pay for health care. I want everyone to live. I wish I could help you but I won't have a full time job after May. I hope someone can offer you some help. You are an amazingly beautiful person! Even on the outside! (And it takes a lot for a gay man to write that!) LOL Thank you for telling your story. Please keep us updated.-Blake-mn Hi! I read your story on the internet and while I am not looking to marry you, I did want to let you know that I think you are a beautiful woman and I hope your plan for health insurance comes to fruition. Times are tough enough nowadays, and to not have health insurance while battling any disease is a travesty in this wealthy nation we live in. Hopefully a military man will answer your prayers as they have some pretty good health benefits. And while you may initially marry someone for their insurance, I hope that it leads to a lifetime of love and happiness. You never know! Good luck! –Diana Nw I think it's good what you are doing. I know exactly how you feel. I became ill in my 20's with low c-4 compliment levels. Then 5 years later I was diagnose with fibromyalgia. Then a few years ago I was diagnosed with lupus and mixed connective tissue disorder. I married when I was 18 and got divorced 2 years ago I'm now 38. I have been on cobra. Next year my cobra will run out. Like you I take many medicines. As of this month I can't get my medicines because I have a 1200 dollar deductible to meet for my cobra. I do not have the work credits either because I was married and did not work because of illness. I do hope everything works out for you. There are so many people in the same position as us. Can you let me know what company you work with because I'm in desperate need of some way to make a living. Amy Mo Its a very sad world, that you live in the US and nobody cares. Go to Haiti and the US takes care of everyone. I do feel sorry for you and for two cents I would go for this deal. I don't thing you would sell you're home and move john in Ca I saw your story this morning on TV and felt compelled to let you know as one of the millions of single (working class poor) women in this country, it is is very sad that you (we) have to take these measures. I have said for years "What do we get for being responsible for ourselves"? I voted for Prop 8, not because I care if gay people get married (I don't really care what two consenting adults do) but what about us single women? Who will pay for us? Who will take care of us? A very sincere Good Luck to you with this marriage proposal! I hope it will work out for you and better yet, be cause for some change for us.maueen in Ca YOU GO GIRL!!!! Send me your leftovers!! I am in a similar boat. Victoria in Ca You go girl!!! I am wishing you all the happiness and the best of luck! The concept is totally novel and right on the money!!!! Good luck!! Kerry in KS What a brave woman you are. I am in a very similar position, however my COBRA insurance ran out several months ago and I have yet to hear an answer from Social Security. I was so excited about health care reform but now realize that politics will cause those like us to suffer on multiple levels. I have been married for 30 years so 'your plan' really isn't an option for me :) I wish you the best. Julie in Ga I am sick of the health insurance companies also.I am in the same situation as you. Divorced, and paying through the nose for health care, and I have to borrow the money from my 70plus year old mom.I feel for you sooooo much. If I ever come into money, I will help you for sure. Good luck to you! I might steal your idea and do the same thing myself! Take care and God Bless You! Cathy in Ca MY HEART GOES OUT TOO YOU AN YOUR FAMILY. I JUST WANT TO SAY IT TAKES A LOT OF COURAGE AND THAT I COMMEND YOU FOR BEING YOUR OWN SPOKES PERSON. I MUST SAY THAT YOU MAKE ME PROUD! KEEP UP YOU QUEST AN MAY YOU BE BLESSEDRESPECTFULY,NAZITA ENGLISH (MARINE WIFE) Press inquires please contact willmarryforhealthinsurance@yahoo.com
.
Dear Terri,I too have been a victim of the health care system. I'm 57 with chronic back pain which took 18 months to diagnose. After every procedure known to man, no one will do surgery - too risky. My brother also has auto-immune condition. I paid $703 for Cobra for 2 years,but fortunately was approved for disability. Out of $1,500, minus $703, minus $800 for Forteo (bone density minus 3.7)leaving me negative for the month. Eli Lilly didn't care. My insurance didn't care. Anyway, mine has been a 3 year ordeal. I commend you for giving us all a voice! I too have wondered what one person can do. In reading some of your emails, we all need a forum to be heard! We are the so called middle class. My partner is a carpenter, out of work !
and no benefits! Thank you for your story. Good Luck to you and keep us posted Debbie Ct
First of all: Sorry, no, I cannot merry you as I'm already merried with the most wonderful woman alive. As you see, I'm living in Berlin, Germany. I found your Homepage via michaelmoore.com. I was wondering, if that is a joke or an action of Michael Moore in order to show the US AND the world the tragedies of the health service in your country. About a year ago I got in contact with some gamers over there in the USA. Perhaps it may look strange for an old (57) dude like me playing a shooter game. I started getting interested in American subjects and after the election of Mr. Obama for president his aim to create a National Health Insurance hab been interesting me. Unfortunately my new friends were not very interesting in political subject.
No health insurance??? WTF was that? For me it is absolutely incomprehensible (hope my translations fit) that one of the important countries of our poor planet is discussing things like that and some people are against that. Unbelievable!As you certainly know, here in Germany everybody is insured except people, who f.e. have their own business but these people don't have the problem of lack of money to pay afor a privat insurance. Even unemployed can meet a doctor of their trust. Only an amount that has to be payed are ? 10.00 per quarter and some medcine f.e. the normal headache pills and even this can be payed for poor people when it is requested.Joerg in Germany
Good Luck and THANK YOU for bringing attention to this situation! My husband and I are also unable to get health care due to pre-existing conditions. It has wiped out our savings and seeing you take action that will bring additional light to this rediculous situation is encouraging. You are beautiful and I hope everthing works out well for you Kathy in OK
Hi there Terri! I cant help too feel sorry for you and your situation.It"s horrible that you can"t get the help that you need in usa!I have a solution to your problem move to another country!I know that"s a drastic solution but then you will get the medicalhelp you need for free and you can choose your next partner out of love and not economy!I know that may not be possible but if you do i can recomend Sweden where i"m from or canada!I hope that you can get the help that you need without leaving your country? And by the way your very good looking and very strong who can tell your story!Love from a Swedish supporter! Robin in Sweden
Mrs. Carlson, you are a beautiful woman and it is really a shame that you have to go the way of a merriage in order to get help. Shocking and absurd
Keep up the fight - we're all pulling for you!! Susie in IL
I just want to say how brave I think you are. Your story is one that countless Americans share, but you have given it a face. And being such a beautiful woman certainly doesn't hurt! I hope this story strikes a nerve in our elected officials and reminds people from all demographics are struggling under our current health care system. Best of luck, and choose wisely!!
Terri,i think it's wonderful what you are doing. You are a mom of 4 and i can tell a spirited soul that just needs a little help. You not asking for a handout, just descent insurance. Hell, just insurance!!! Keep it up and my prayers are with you and your family. Godd luck.
Stephanie ...(Chattanooga)
Terri, you go girl! When I was reading your story, I felt like I was reading my own story, because I have been in your exact situation for the past 17 years. I was in a dibilitating car accident as a single mom and had no medical or health insurance, can't be insured now, couldn't work, fought with work comp & social security for years, living on little or nothing, and finally after fighting exhaustively, am getting my big whopping $890 mo. SSD, which I will have to live on for the rest of my life. I can't live on it now! I even thought of the bank robbery thing, like you did!! I think your idea is innovative & brave, and I applaud you for taking charge of your life. Don't listen to any of that "bunk" about "settling." Hoping for you that you find the right person who deserves the unique & special person that you obviously are! Best wishes! Kitty in Ca
All I can say is that you are my hero and I hope everything works out well for you! Liz in IL
I am in the same predicament as you are only I am 48 with a different disability and running out of money etc.....so if you have an overload of prospective husbands, please send some of them my way....I am desperate too, but I am praying daily for God's intervention that is the only way we can win, with Divine intervention.
Please tell me how I can also join your movement and make my own video and gain prospective healthinsured husbands....I will join your force and do what I can so that people like us don't end up on the streets or in a shelter.Rose from the island of Oahu Rose in Hi
I heard you on Thom Hartmann's program today. I wish you all the luck in the world and THANK YOU for helping explain this issue to many in denial. Bless you. Az
You go girl! I too am abit in the middle. I work part-time so I can care for my children; my husband died from a Heart Attack at the age of 46. After our COBRA ran out we did manage to get Health coverage but as the years have gone by the rate has gone to over $1000 a month. As it continues to increase I will no longer be able to afford it; and when I apply to other insurance companies I to am turned down due to simple pre-exsisitng conditons (me hi blood pressure, a child with asthma and such). So much of what you have written is so true for so many of us. I hope you keep getting press and continue to get the word out. Diane GA
There's a 13 year old boy in my community who is dying from a treatable cancer and they family is uninsured. The hospital won't operate until they receive the $100k+ payment up front. Your interview/website leads me to wonder about the pathetic and tragic need for possibly: Will Adopt for Health Insurance. Ugh. Thanks for what you're doing. Becky CO
I obviously am not interested in marrying you, but I do want to tell you that you have the support of one woman in Indiana. This is a very bold move, but your reasons are perfectly valid, and I wish you the best of luck in your search for insurance and with your illness.
Missy IN
I am 23 years old and was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis 4 years ago. Similar to yourself, my disease is an auto-immune, where my body attacks itself. My parents were able to cover me under their health insurance while I was in college, but my dad recently lost his job, and his health insurance will run out soon. Just like you, due to my pre-existing condition nobody will agree to cover me. My medical bills with doctor visits, weekly sub-cutaneous injections, steroids, and other medications is too high for me to afford on my own. I think it's great that you're putting a face to so many people out there like me that suffer from similar problems. You are the voice for those of us who have been forgotten or looked over, and maybe someone will listen to you and do something for all of us. You give everyone hope that maybe there will eventually be an answer to our prayers. I hope you find a wonderful husband with great health benefits. And who knows, since my disease only gets worse with time maybe I will have to do what you're doing somewhere down the road. Don't listen to people who judge you for what you're doing; know that you have lots of supporters, and remember you're an inspiration to many! Chelsea Ct
, too, found myself in your shoes. I've been divorced 11 years. I was a stay at home Mom, with three children. My oldest is now 27 and married. I am still raising a son, who is 17 and a daughter who is 15. My son has Velo-Cardio-Facial Syndrome. I cannot work, and cannot get disability myself. (I was diagnosed with breast cancer almost 5 years ago.) My son has had 5 open heart surgeries, two brain surgiers, he has JRA, bipolar disorder, and is now in chronic pain from an injury to his brain stem from a school bully's meanness. My youngest has insulin resistance and is hypothryoid. I pay $1234 a month for private health care insurance. Eight years ago, when I first purchased the policy it was "only $550 a month".
I, too, had considered marriage as a viable option, however, with a son with chronic, demanding health care issues, my "attractability" is not the same as yours. Most men do not want to "take on" that kind of responsibility. I have long thought that SOMETHING has to be done about our segment of the population. Our numbers are in the legions, yet are voices are unheard....until now, with you. Would you be willing to head up a grass roots movement, along with my help? I have a great deal of experience and expertise at "dealing with" the medical community....insurance companies, doctors, etc., as I have fought for and won, many services for my son over his 17 years. I believe in taking a stand for what you believe in, and, until now, I had found no one with the "determination" such as yours, who wanted to confront this issue. If you would be willing to talk with me, please write back, and we can discuss this further. I am not only fighting for myself, but I believe in fighting for those who either can't/don't know how to speak up and affect a change in their lives. Thank you, Terri, for your boldness, braveness, and willingness to be the face, voice, and persona of all of us women out there who need health coverage equality NOW! Most sincerely, Pamela Sc
When I read this story, I thought I can really relate to this. I am a 54 year old widow, recently unemployed, with an 18 year old college-age daughter. My daughter loses her health care when she turns 19 in June. I will lose mine as well. Let me know when the caravan goes to Washington as I'll be coming along. Susane PA
Terri, you are such a strong and beautiful woman. I hope everything works out for you (but be careful who you marry). I do know what you are going through, not so much because of any preexisting condition, cuz im fairly healthy. But because im the single young mother of two toddlers and i could not afford regular health plans, and according to the govt, i made too much to be on medicaid (7.85 and hour, 33hrs a week). so i was stuck in the middle with out options. i needed to have my 3 impacted wisdom teeth removed, and my vision sucks so i needed an eye exam, but it was impossible to pay for everything out of pocket. luckily though, i was able to change jobs and i now work for a casino in southwest kansas with EXCELLENT and affordable health benefits. I'll be praying for you because i know what its like to be stuck with illnesses or medical bills with no way out. God Bless. Kim KS
Terri: I believe that you have found God's plan for your life and it is indeed a grand plan. Keep up God's work coupled with your passion
to help straighten out the health care mess and you will find God's answer to your prayers. Carl CA
There are more of us out there than we know. I, too, am uninsured and cannot afford insurance. I have fibromyalgia, carpal tunnel and chronic gastrointestinal issues. I may be beautiful on the outside but I live with pain daily. I have also considered marrying for healthcare. Glad to know it's not that crazy of an idea. Ali AL
Brilliant idea! Thank you so much for your courage and getting the word out that health care is so broken in this country. I cannot imagine being in your situation but as a healthy person at 50 I constantly think that at any moment I could lose everything if I became ill ANN
I just want to say that I completely support you. Your story sounds so similar to mine. I am a college student who is also on COBRA. I currently have no job and am paying almost 600$a month. If I didn't have COBRA it would be thousands a month. I am looking for a job that is part time due to classes and has prescription insurance. As laughable as that sounds it is also disheartening and is making me desperate. I wish every day that the government and health insurance companies would realize what they are doing to thousands of people who have no choice but to pay out of pocket expenses that we should not have to pay. Life is not always fair but we should not have to pay a fortune just because the government cannot decide on what to do. We are already paying by having a life changing disease or an accident. Thank you for speaking up for us. Laura TN
I'm not so interested in marriage, but I am supportive of your cause. Keep up the campaign and something good will come of it for sure.Kim
I understand just where you are coming from. I have , and at the age of 50 I have been divorced for almost ten years. He left, or rather asked me to leave after my second hospitalization. As my illness was stressing him out. I have run through all the money I had saved for retirement, my divorce settlement and have lost my home. I still live in it, but expect to be on the street any day now. If I could find a place for my beloved dog, I would end my own life in a minute Janice Ma