I am one of the growing numbers of nameless Americans that cannot afford health insurance. I consider myself a self-insured person. I see the doctor at least once a year for an overall checkup. Years ago, I was diagnosed with gout and have been living with this easily treatable affliction for as long as ten years now.

Health is a wonder, especially when the news comes that health is also fleeting if taken for granted. I have recently been informed that I am a borderline diabetic. I am amused at this diagnosis because it seems much like being borderline pregnant. It seems to me that one is either a diabetic or not a diabetic. But alas, I won’t allow my cynicism to belittle the very dangerous news of my condition.

And since I am an American with no health insurance and now am in possession of a pre-existing condition, my chances of gaining affordable health insurance seem to be near impossible. I am forced to take responsibility for my health and work to possibly reverse the condition since I am still diagnosed as “borderline”. I am looking forward to an increased health awareness and responsible and healthy life choices to reduce the need for expensive healthcare treatment. Carpe diem!