Marilee’s Story
- Oregon
- Story
- Economic Freedom
Marilee
(OR-16)
My name is Marilee and I am from Salem, Oregon. I am a wildlife enthusiast who loves learning new crafts. Today I want to share my story.
Weeks before my 65th birthday, I had a stroke that paralyzed my left side. I was cleaning homes for a living but did not make enough to put money in savings, or enough money for health insurance. While in the hospital someone came in to see me and help me with all the forms for Medicare, Social Security, and Medicaid.
Weeks before my 65th birthday, I had a stroke that paralyzed my left side. I was cleaning homes for a living but did not make enough to put money in savings, or enough money for health insurance.
I am now 74 and I am still [enrolled] in all the programs because although I have regained mobility, I am considered disabled. After my stroke, my gait was changed–it took me 10 months to be able to walk. I use a cane and I’m unable to walk long distances. If this administration does cut Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and SNAP, I will no longer have any income, healthcare, or food. I generally have one meal a day to stretch the money out for the month. If I lost Medicaid, I wouldn’t be able to pay for my Medicare as it pays for my doctor’s visits. I need these visits because they help me manage my blood pressure and they manage my medications. I currently take Lisinoprin, Otarvastatin, and other medications…without them, my pain and blood pressure would get so much worse. And without Medicaid, I wouldn’t be able to afford these medicines.
Having universal access to food and healthcare would lessen the everyday struggles and stress for a large portion for our citizens. I want to be able to continue my hobbies. I want to be able to spend time with my daughter. These programs help me do those things.
