Doing My Part for Healthcare Reform

My elected officials always disagree with me because I live in redneck country, but you know what ... I'm not giving up. Part of their job is to listen to me, and so I'm going to keep on keeping on. Here's what they got from me today:

As an uninsured, terminally ill and ineligible for Medicaid constituent, I am writing to urge you to help reform the healthcare system. Last night our President challenged you to reject the radical antics of your party and do your part to help us, American citizens. Prove to us that you are not in the pocket of Blue Cross and other big insurance and drug companies by contributing to a healthcare plan that is good for America. He clearly outlined what we need – it’s up to you to get it done. The only truly “bad” thing about what’s been proposed is the potential for fining individuals who choose not to afford any health insurance policy. You should seize the opportunity to better your bi-partisan reputation by offering an alternative to that. American citizens must not be required to have medical insurance; but rather, they should be required to pay their own way if they so choose. This can be accomplished with a waiver of sorts or by noting regular contributions to a medical savings account on income tax returns.

GET 'R DONE!

*I* Can't Wait

Hmmm, something to talk to the doc about

It's no secret that I have had major concerns about the gut-busting side effects of the various drugs I've been prescribed for RA. I'd previously reported my glee at taking myself off the Ketoprofen, and then my annoyance at being urged to stay on it. I'm afraid I may have to fess up about my unwillingness to stop drinking alcohol (though I have cut way back). This weekend, however, I added a pain med (prescribed to me by my RA doc) in addition to having had a bit to drink along with my regular meds. I was really wanting to get some uninterrupted sleep because I've been so tired lately. My concoction backfired. The pain med usually causes me some nausea the day following a dose, but it's short-lived and never productive. This Labor Day combination made me so nauseous, it woke me up. After hacking up what looked like a large blood booger (about nickel sized), the nausea subsided and I was able to go back to sleep for a little bit. I wouldn't say that I really felt bad the rest of the day, but I was a little freaked out by the morning's hurl.

It's time to get my annual TB test. I've had the order for it for several weeks, I must remember to get that done.