Mellissa Ely, known to many as Missy, is a 51-year-old woman from Lincoln, Nebraska, a mom to two boys and a grandmother to four grandkids. She is also a registered Republican, a supporter of Donald Trump, and has been navigating the health care system for years with the help of Medicaid expansion. Missy’s ability to […]
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Theresa Luoni, New Jersey
In Basking Ridge, New Jersey, Theresa Luoni is raising 12-year-old twin boys with autism. Her life revolves around ensuring they have the care, therapies and opportunities they need — not just to survive, but to thrive. Theresa’s sons, Dylan and Max, were born prematurely at just 26 weeks. “They both stayed in the NICU,” she […]
Ray Horton, Michigan
At 31 years old, Ray, a father of five from Michigan, is working hard to raise a young family while managing the pressures of everyday life. Until recently, Medicaid was something he hadn’t thought deeply about. His wife, Autumn, handled the paperwork to make sure their kids had coverage. But as he began reflecting more […]
Steven Leaton, Pennsylvania
Steven Leaton lives in Lehigh County, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Rosemary, and their two daughters, Brianna and Hailey. For Steven and his family, Medicaid isn’t just a government program, it’s what keeps them going. “I worked at a locally owned family restaurant for the last 10 years or so,” Steven explains. “My job doesn’t offer […]
Shauntea (River) Bancroft, Michigan
River didn’t expect to become a single parent, but everything changed when her son was born. “My kid means everything to me,” she says. “He’s very goofy, very sweet, very loving. Sometimes a little stubborn, but definitely one of the best things that’s ever happened to my life.” Now nine months old, her son is […]
Colleen & Shaun Tomko, Pennsylvania
“My name is Shaun. I am 35 years old. I have support to go out in the community four days a week…I decide what I’m going to do and direct others to support me…Medicaid gives me life, but I need more support not less.” Shaun’s words are simple, clear, and powerful. His autonomy, his ability […]
Mary Beth, Pennsylvania
Mary Beth Koniarski lives in Lawrence Valley, Pennsylvania, with her husband and their adult son, Adam. For more than a decade, they have shared not just a home but the daily challenges and triumphs that come with living alongside serious mental illness. And through it all, Medicaid has been the lifeline that has helped keep […]
Louis Bonilla, New Jersey
Louis Bonilla has been a resident at Complete Care Nursing Home in Brick, New Jersey, for the past four years. After a series of health crises nearly took everything from him, Louis credits Medicaid and Medicare for saving his life A former musician and lifelong music lover, Louis spent 30 years working for the Musicland […]
Wayla Murrow, Colorado
Wayla Murrow of Commerce City, Colorado, lives in the 8th Congressional District and has been a registered Republican for years. But when it comes to Medicaid, she says, “the issue of Medicaid and health care transcends political affiliation for me.” Wayla is the mother of 30-year-old Cynda, who has an intellectual disability and receives services […]
Mickey Rottinghaus, Iowa
Mickey Rottinghaus spends much of her time in Waterloo, Iowa, where she’s helping care for her adult son, Tucker, who is currently on bed rest. Her days are filled with love, devotion, and constant vigilance—but also deep concern. Medicaid isn’t just a policy issue for Mickey; it’s a lifeline. “When it comes to Medicaid,” she […]