Too many Americans have health care horror stories. My family is no exception.

I’m a single mom to two boys. Years ago, one of my sons needed surgery. Rather than being fully present for him, I had to spend my time both before he went under and after he came to working virtually, as I couldn’t afford to take even a single day off.

Then, in between appointments and the surgery, he was diagnosed with celiac disease. To this day, I am still paying off the high deductible with his insurance policy.

When you’re a single parent and your children get sick, it’s terrifying. Then, when you’re forced to haggle with insurance, and are unable to take time off to care for your kids without losing your paycheck? It’s cruel.

Our health care system needs to be universally accessible, and affordable.

Alicia Barnes

Augusta