HUNTINGTON'S DISEASE: Legislation needed

I am writing to strongly urge my representative to co-sponsor the Huntington’s Disease Parity Act of 2013 (H.R. 1015) and to ask my senators to co-sponsor the Senate Companion, S. 723. If passed, the Huntington’s Disease Parity Act would make it easier for people with Huntington’s disease to receive Social Security Disability and Medicare Benefits.

HD is a hereditary, degenerative brain disorder for which there is, at present, no effective treatment or cure. The disease slowly diminishes an individual’s ability to walk, talk and reason. Eventually, every person with HD becomes totally dependent upon others for his or her care. HD profoundly affects the lives of entire families — emotionally, socially and economically.

By co-sponsoring the Huntington’s Disease Parity Act of 2013, members of Congress can show their support for not only this family, but the nearly 1 million Americans who are touched by this terrible disease.

JESSAMY COTTEN

Post Falls