My name is Rose Keller, I am a 22-year-old student at Bowdoin College. As an infant, I was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis, a rare and progressive genetic disorder with no cure. And my ability to breathe depends entirely on numerous prescription drugs.
Like countless others grappling with chronic illnesses, I’ve witnessed firsthand the burden exorbitant drug costs have imposed on my family. Last year alone, my family spent almost $3,000 out-of-pocket for my life-sustaining medications.
The only medication that treats the underlying cause of my disease carries an annual list price upwards of $300,000. The medication brings enormous relief, but its cost casts a shadow over my life.
As a young adult about to graduate from college, I should be focused on my next steps – finding a job, applying to law school, and weathering my dad’s embarrassing stories at graduation. One day, I hope to be an attorney who fights for good governance practices and effective public administration. I want to spend my time planning for that future.
Instead, I am worried about my ability to afford my health care and live an independent life. But amidst these challenges, the Biden Administration has offered a glimmer of hope.
President Biden said he’d take on big pharma and beat them – and he has. His Inflation Reduction Act lowered prescription drug prices for seniors. It’s a big deal.
Now he’s fighting to cap out-of-pocket drug costs at $2,000 for all Americans. For people like my family. For people like me.
President Biden believes health care is a right – not a privilege, and so do I.