Rally for Medicaid

Thank you for your coverage of our Medicaid Matters Rally. And also a big thanks to all of our volunteers and speakers and those of you who took time out of your busy lives to offer support.

There are a couple of numbers I would like to correct. There were 17 rallies across the state with a total attendance of over 6000 people.

Our Mountain Home crowd topped out at just over 100 people. Thats a lot of people who stood in the cold to show their support. Thank you all again! Please remember to contact your legislators!

Tami

I would like to give a tip of the hat to the survivors of mental health issues who shared their very private stories with those of us who came to the rally. Yes, it was very cold in the park that morning, but not nearly as cold as the medicaid services recipiants would be if forced out of their services and into society alone. It is uncomprehendable the lives these human beings would be forced to face, on the streets or in state run hospitals if our government takes their services away. While it is true that I am sitting in a warm home while writing this, you by the same token are sitting in a warm home while reading it. Go stand outside for 10 minutes with no coat on, no gloves or hat....you wouldnt want that for yourself, but how easy is it while warm to turn your head and not look at those who are out there, cold, hungry, confused, alone...that is what our government is going to cause even more of than our country and communities already face each day. Our family has friends in other states who suffer from severe mental health issues and already dont get 1/4 of the services they need in order to help them be able to be productive in the community. Very intelligent and creative people who because of their disability they cannot function in society because they cannot or can no longer get a service that helps them. Medications do not solve everything, there is no magical pill. There is however one thing that stands out that is magical...human contact, the handshake, the hug, the heart. Please, find it in your heart to help fight this worthy cause to keep medicaid services from being cut or taken away any further. We are going to pay one way or the other, personal services are far less expensive than institutional ones. Next time, dont turn away, offer a smile, or a handshake and know that you helped to make a difference.