Opinion

Kirk has chance to advance health care

Posted January 10, 2013 4:00 am

I, like other citizens, congratulate Senator Kirk on his return to the Senate after a yearlong struggle to regain his health following a devastating stroke. In reading newspaper accounts of his rehabilitation and expectations for the future, I was struck by his comment that he does not support the Affordable Care Act yet intends to champion the health care needs of all Americans, especially those who suffer a stroke or other disability.

I wonder how many Americans could afford the care he has and will continue to receive; be able to renovate two residences to make them handicapped accessible; employee a person assistant; receive his salary while recovering and have his job awaiting his return? My guess is not many!

I sincerely hope Sen. Kirk will be remembered less for his return to the Senate, but instead, become acknowledged as someone who fought for access to quality care for all Americans, especially individuals with life-altering disabilities. Such an effort would truly make Sen. Kirk remembered for what he did to advance legislative issues to ensure health care for all Americans.

William J. Filstead

Arlington Heights

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