The Denver Post

What Medicaid cuts would mean for families of most vulnerable

- Re: Debra Lovell, Sandra Uhlik,

“GOP plan for Medicaid would fail my disabled brother,” March 14 guest commentary.

Alyssa Roberts’ guest commentary was to the point. Siblings of an individual living with disability realize the reality of sacrifice: they are profoundly shaped by daily events as their family navigates therapy, school, and medical, emotional, physical and behavioral challenges. Additional­ly, parents must conquer complex service systems with more paperwork and meetings than are humanly possible while also maintainin­g the “regular” activities of family life.

Siblings of an individual living with disability love their brother or sister and understand the harsh reality that the parents will not live forever. Families in every sphere of society struggle for support and limited resources in the current system, which is already strapped for money. The proposed changes to Medicaid would only make it harder; this makes no sense. Our country cannot become a place where the most vulnerable — children and those living with disability — must “make do” so that government can improve the bottom line. BBB As a retired special education teacher, I identify with Alyssa Roberts regarding her disabled brother and the effects of Medicaid cuts. I, too, take care of a disabled brother.

I know the Trump administra­tion is looking to strengthen the military to protect us from our enemies. But these cuts being made to Medicaid should be made with common sense and sensitivit­y to the groups being affected.

If our goal is to make all citizens safe and guarantee the rights of freedom, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, then we must protect the most vulnerable in our society who deserve nothing less. If not, then we must ask: Who is the enemy?

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