I received this e-mail to write about health reform. I, myself, only can speak for myself.

The health care that we have now does not take care of the people it is supposed to. Let me tell you a few things that have happened to me. ...

I have worked for 20 years trying to support my family. When I got a divorce 12 years ago, the health care was absolutely terrible. I had a female problem that was causing life-threating issues. I went for three years with no one to help. Finally, I did receive insurance, but it was too late. I had to have a hysterectomy because of going so long without care. And it happened again a few years ago when I needed back surgery, and had major issues with diabetes. There was no help, and again it was almost too late when I received the insurance to help.

So this country really needs health care reform so the less fortunate can have a better life. The people, even the poor, have a right to the same care as the wealthy. There are people dying because of no health care. They fall between the lines. This country was supposed to help its citizens, but it doesn't. There are more people that are dying from controllable illnesses that can't take care of themselves. It is sad, very sad. If this country can't stick up for one another, then this should not be called America, the "land of the free."

So please take into consideration the people. They aren't just a number on a form, they have names and families that love them just as the wealthy do.

So I ask again, please, do what you are supposed to do - care again for your neighbor!

Martha Lassiter

Marietta