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I'm signing up for Obamacare

These Americans can't wait until they can apply for health insurance under the new state-based exchanges, scheduled to open for enrollment in October. For some with pre-existing conditions, there are no other options.

obamacare terry oneal
  • Name: Terry O'Neal, 39
  • Job: Writer, Ph.D. student
  • Residence: Elk Grove, Calif.

My husband is self-employed, and I make less than $850 a month. I have three children, ages 15, 18 and 21. I haven't had medical insurance for three years and, for almost the last two years, my kids haven't had any insurance.

As a result, I have to take advantage of free medical programs for women. I just returned from having a procedure done at Duke University Hospital in Durham, N.C., because I had uterine tumors that needed to be removed. I was lucky enough to get accepted into a clinical study. To take my daughter to the doctor, I have to pay over $100.

I can't function if my health is not okay. It's quite disturbing and frustrating that I've had to go through so much to try to get Medi-Cal (California's Medicaid program) for me and my children. It's stressful because you never know when a health issue will arise.

Being part of Obamacare would eliminate a major stress in my life. I wouldn't have to worry about my kids when they are active. It would allow me to go to the doctor when I need to, and get an annual checkup like women are supposed to.

  @Luhby - Last updated May 09 2013 06:13 AM ET

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