To the Editor: Re: “The Stigma of Chronic Disease,” by Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson (May 27)
Congresswoman Johnson’s recent op-ed sheds important light on a national epidemic. Seven out of every ten individuals nationwide will eventually succumb to chronic disease. While chronic illness afflicts people regardless of race, ethnicity or gender, it can have a far greater impact for those of us who are unprepared for the high costs of medication and treatment.
At this very moment, millions of Americans are forced to go without medications that can better their lives. Although most chronic disease patients have valid insurance, it’s estimated more than 30 percent of them still cannot afford their treatments.
As the executive director of a co-pay charity assistance that helps under-insured patients access expensive specialty therapeutics, I want to echo support of Rep. Johnson’s statement that “the appearance of someone with a chronic disease is often a poor indicator of how their illness affects them.” For those people out there struggling to manage the costs of a chronic illness, know there are organizations out there that may be able to help – including with direct financial assistance, premium assistance and help with any travel expenses.
Many of the diseases that impact the most people, such as cancer, cardiovascular disease and obesity, are largely preventable or manageable with the right treatments – much like Rep. Johnson, I too am committed to spreading education and awareness so that we can help people across this country live healthier, longer lives.
Clorinda Walley is the executive director of Good Days, a national, independent 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization based in Plano, Texas, that helps underinsured patients with chronic disease, cancer, or other life-altering conditions obtain medications they need but cannot afford.
