Cheryl’s Story

Cheryl’s Story

Paradis, Louisiana (LA-02)

My name is Cheryl and I’m a 65 year old grandmother and former professional welder living in Paradis, Louisiana. I’m also a dog-mom to my Yorkie, Baby, and a grateful beneficiary of government assistance programs including Medicaid, SNAP, and Section 8.

I’ve had a life full of hard work, survival, and sacrifices. I’ve been dealing with health issues for years–ruptured discs, degenerative rheumatoid arthritis, high blood pressure, and more. Before I became eligible for Medicaid under the ACA expansion, I was in a dire situation. I struggled to get the medications I needed because the out of pocket costs were often upwards of $300 a month. After Hurricane Ida, I lived in a FEMA trailer for 2 years. I was finally able to get affordable housing through Section 8… without it I don’t know where I would be now.

However, I still struggle to make ends meet. We need to further expand programs like Medicaid, SNAP, Medicare, disability, and housing benefits, not cut them. I live on a fixed income and can no longer work due to my disability. Medicaid, SNAP, and other benefits are what stand between me being housed and living on the streets. They are what keep me alive, healthy, and able to care for my beloved children, granddaughter, and my dog, Baby. So, when we talk about protecting these programs, we’re not just talking about numbers or politics. We’re talking about real lives—lives like mine, and the lives of so many others who rely on these benefits to survive.  

I still have big dreams. I want to see my granddaughter graduate from college, and I want my son and his fiancee to be ok.. I just want to live comfortably in my own skin. But the stress and uncertainty about what might happen to vital programs I benefit from is scary. The thought of our lawmakers slashing funds for Medicaid, SNAP, and other benefits that keep me afloat keeps me up at night. It’s a constant fear and it’s one that’s hard to shake.

Without universal access to food and healthcare, the struggles would only get worse. It’s not just about surviving—it’s about getting the chance to actually thrive. If we had access to these benefits universally, it would take away so much of the daily stress. People would be able to focus on living, working, and contributing without worrying where their next meal or doctor’s appointment is coming from. It would allow us to engage with each other more meaningfully and stop stressing about basic needs.

Please, don’t take away the programs that make it possible for people like me to live. I’ve seen the devastation of living without support, and I know how much these programs matter. They’re not just a safety net—they’re a necessity and a lifeline.

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