Personal Story - Jolene and Marlee Baxtor

The personal reading introduces to us Jolene and Marlee Baxtor. Jolene Baxtor is the mother of Marlee who shares how federal policy changes are putting families who have children with complex medical needs through mental and physical distress. Her daughter, Marlee, who is now eight years old, has faced serious health challenges since birth, including a heart defect and a stroke, which have affected her cognitive abilities. Furthermore, because of this she is required for ongoing therapies such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy for assistance and regulation. Such as speech education supports also often coordinated through Medicaid and the Department of Education.

Jolene explains that Medicaid has covered Marlee’s medical expenses and assisted to make sure she gets the support and care she needs. However, due to the ongoing health cuts under The Trump Administration, tagging along with the Department of Education as well these situations have put Jolene and Marlee at risk for receiving the care Marlee needs in her daily routine. As Jolene is deepened on healthcare assistance for her daughter Marlee who needs special needs, this have put Jolene in a vulnerable spot afraid that she might lose her daughters Medicaid due to the healthcare fund cut.