I was born to a single mom who lacked health insurance. OHSU provided charity care to my mom during my birth. Two years later, the Chemawa Indian Health Center in my hometown of Salem was established. I was able to get the care I needed that my family may not have been able to otherwise afford.
I joined the U.S. Army at 18, a blue-collar kid in hopes of adventure, a vocation, money for college and seeing the world while serving the country I love. I served in Army hospitals for eight years in the U.S and around the world, including Afghanistan. As an active-duty soldier, I always received high-quality care from the military health system.
I received an honorable discharge from the Army in 2003. Ever since, I have been eligible and received “the best care anywhere” from the Veterans Administration.
Whether because of my status and eligibility as a Native American, as an active-duty soldier, or now as a veteran, the federal government has always ensured that I had the care I needed to thrive. I want this right to health care for all my fellow Oregonians regardless of their background or demographic. Measure 111 will add language to the state constitution which establishes health care as a human right for all Oregonians.
I encourage voters to vote yes on Measure 111.
Valdez Bravo, Lake Oswego
If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation.