As a young women disabled early in life, I hope to live in a country where I can seek the same benefits as my peers and not be outcast simply because of my unfortunate illnesses. Prior to the ACA, while I worked full time, my employer did not offer benefits and I was uninsurable; I relied upon Planned Parenthood for medical treatment for my polycystic ovarian syndrome and my endometriosis. I can’t imagine having that as an unavailable to me as a resource. Since then I’ve developed several autoimmune diseases (Dysautonomia, Gastroparesis, POTS, Ehler-Danlos) and I shudder to think of what will happen if we loose the ability to have health care without the pre-existing conditions clause.  My husband is planning on going back to school in August to become a doctor to help people with chronic pain like me, I don’t know what we will do without the ACA’s protection. I want to live in an America where we continue to progress equal rights for all no matter gender or ability, that’s why I’m choosing to join this virtual march. Let’s focus on progress!

Please follow my daily journey of life with chronic illness on instagram @rachelgressler.