More on medical bills than groceries

Last year, my family spent more money on medical bills than we did on groceries. None of us has a severe illness, and we have quality health insurance. However, copays and prescription costs are so high that we still pay far more in medical bills than we can afford.

We aren't the only ones paying through the nose for medical care, either. A recent federal study shows that health care costs rose $2.5 trillion in 2009. That's $8,047 per person. How many of us can really afford that? And, this problem isn't going to go away. Health care costs will continue to rise, unless Congress can pass a bill that will regulate this industry.

We are so close to passing this important bill. It is vitally important to so many of us. I believe in this bill, and I stand with President Obama in calling for Congress to finish the job they started. Congress needs to be strong and do the right thing for the American people, not cave to pressure from media pundits on the right.

Carolyn Parker

Aurora