Three years ago, the husband of a co-worker died of cancer. He was 32 years old. He didn't have health insurance and therefore did not see a doctor until his cancer was too far along to treat. Nevertheless, they tried treatment, chemo et al. Over $100,000 in debt and 10 painful months later, he died.
Yesterday, the son of a co-worker died. He was 21 years old. Roughly four months ago he was diagnosed with schizophrenia. Less than a month ago he was released from his second treatment facility. He was released without his meds and regardless of whether or not his parents or anyone else was there to pick him up. Fortunately his family was there and brought him home. His parents did the best they could for him at home all the time trying to get him into another care facility. Last night, he became aggressive and the police were called. When a taser failed to stop him, the officer opened fire. He died from a single gunshot to the chest.
My heart goes out to my co-workers, past and present. And I ask, how is it that we as a society, as the richest nation in the history of the world, fail to take care of the most vulnerable members of our society?
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