Shari & Hal Horne: Peace of Mind Because of Medicaid

Shari Horne has been married to her husband Hal, who lives with a chronic illness for 25 years. Shari is a caregiver for Hal and after he suffered injuries from a recent fall, the couple quickly became overwhelmed. “It was a tough time that required even more caregiving from me, and the hospital bills became overwhelming.” 

California’s Medicaid program, Medi-Cal, and food assistance programs have been a huge relief for Shari and Hal. “The medications that once were a huge financial burden have now been reduced to nearly nothing, making a world of difference.”  

Shari and Hal have also been approved for a Medi-Cal benefit In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) that provides care for older adults and people with disabilities in California to allow them to stay in their own homes instead of long-term care facilities. Now Shari knows that Hal will be able to receive the care he needs if she can no longer be his caregiver herself. “It gives me peace of mind knowing that if something happens, there will be someone there to help care for Hal. I won’t have to shoulder it all on my own, and he won’t be left alone. That’s a comfort I never realized I needed so much.”  

Medi-Cal has also allowed Shari and Hal to access other services that improve their quality of life, . “Medi-Cal has opened so many doors for us, covering daycare centers, Part B Medicare expenses, and even dental costs, which we’ve been struggling with lately.” 

Shari and Hal know that access to Medicaid doesn’t only affect their health. It affects every aspect of their lives. “While I understand that large government agencies can sometimes face issues with fraud and abuse, cutting benefits for those who truly need them would have devastating consequences—people could die, and seniors could lose their homes and end up homeless.” 

Shari has one message for her representative: “Congresswoman Kim.. As a voter, I’m asking you to protect our health care. Stand up for seniors.”