Don't be hasty with health care debate

I would like to note that I am neither Democrat nor Republican, but a true patriot. I served my country during the Vietnam War and today I admire the courage and dedication of all our men and women in the Armed Services. Because of these brave individuals and others before them that have put their lives in harm's way, we at home have the freedom, according to the Constitution, to voice our opinions as individuals.

Today, we have a decision to make regarding health care. This is being debated strongly back and forth in the media, as well as between Democrats and Republicans. There are points on both sides that confuse the issues at hand. There are town hall meetings across the country protesting President Obama's health care reform.

There are things that bother me about health care reform. Who's going to pay for this massive health care overhaul? President Obama states there are 44 million people without health insurance. I would like to know if the 12 million illegal immigrants are a part of that 44 million? Also, why should I, a person who pays for health insurance, be ushered into a plan where my health care stands a chance to be diminished, in order to help pay for those that are here illegally. I hardly think this is the American way.

If Canada and Britain both seem to be having problems with a similar health care government run system, why in the world would we in the U.S. want this kind of health care reform? Think about it.

We need to slow down and think things out before rushing into something that could ruin our nation as we know it. I've been told that liability and tort reform is one way to begin. How about using some of the more than a trillion dollars that would be used in the health care reform and instead issue a family tax credit to help pay for health care? Get drug companies to lower the cost of drugs.

Gary Meyer

Pingree Grove