Our ambulance got a lot of attention in this logging and mining town in Lincoln county. This tiny town in the most northwestern region of the state has received a lot of attention recently as it is one of the largest super-fund sites in the U.S. Residents here have their own special set of health care stories related to the asbestos that has covered their town for the past three-quarters of a century. Over 1/5 of this town has tested positive for asbestosis.
In spite of the health care horror stories that these residents have lived through, we received a warm welcome at the Relay for Life as we handed out bottles of water and granola bars to participants.
One of our conversations involved a former navy seal who was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis after he retired. Fortunately for his VA health care benefits, he is able to receive the care he needs to treat his illness. Without the coverage he is currently receiving from our government, this gentleman who had dutifully served his country would be in an incredibly different position than he currently is.
Libby is also home to a strong community of home care workers who are represented by SEIU Healthcare 775NW and recently won their first contract with their employer. This contract included opening up eligibility for healthcare benefits for only $25 a month. Members Lura and Jan did a great job sending other Relay participants to our Ambulance to share their stories and refuel.
