Julia's American Dream

“The thought of Medicaid cuts terrifies me. What would happen to Julia without the support she needs?” - Joan, Julia’s mother

Julia's Medicaid Story

"Because of funding from the federal government’s Medicaid program, our 43-year-old daughter, Julia, who was born with intellectual disabilities, has had the opportunity to live a life of independence and happiness. For the past 12 years, she has received support from Ray Graham Association.

She lives in a CILA (Community Integrated Living Arrangement) home with five other women who have similar disabilities. These roommates have become like sisters, and they truly love each other. Julia has worked part-time at Portillo’s Restaurant for 12 years as a cafe attendant. Her job training program, funded through Medicaid, gave her the ability to learn the tasks she was expected to perform at work."

Why Medicaid Is Important to Julia:

"Julia depends on Medicaid and Medicare for her healthcare. She is diabetic and has hyperthyroidism due to being born with Turner Syndrome and also contracting a virus called CMV while I was pregnant with her. The CMV caused her to be physically and intellectually disabled for her entire life.

Medicaid cuts would not only force Julia out of her beloved home but would also displace others who have no family to care for them. Many older adults whose parents have passed away would become homeless, facing mental decline and isolation."

What Does Joan, Julia's Mom, Fear About Medicaid Cuts?

"My deepest fear about cuts in Medicaid is the very real possibility that Julia will not have anyone to care for her after her father and I are gone. We are in our 70s, and I worry every day about her well-being.

She is a sweet and lovely girl and a blessing to her siblings, but with their busy lives, they are not in a position to provide their sister with the daily care she needs."