Dear Madam Speaker,
I am writing because I am a disabled person of 60 years of age living on Medicare.  I understand there is to be no increase in Medicare for the next two years. The President is all wet if he thinks that we can possibly survive for two years with no increase. The $250.00 he proposes will not even cover my electric bill in the summer months.
 
As for the healthcare bill for me I think with universal healthcare on the table with a public option the insurance companies will be forced to lower premiums.  Everyone of the Republicans are speculating it will rise no way.  If the premiums go up to much people will jump ship and go to the government plan. This will force the insurers to lower premiums offer more for less. Competition is the word.
 
Going back to Medicare I am limited to earning $700.00 per month until I reach 66 years of age if the President is not going to offer an increase in Medicare for the next two years then remove the $700.00 limit.  I work part-time close to my home as college assistant for Lehman College Congressman Engle's Alma Mater it is 3 blocks from my home. I have a mangled foot and a brain tumor Social Security has determined my condition will only get worse.  My food bill is rising steadily. Just last week I purchased oatmeal generic store brand it used to be $1.79 it is now $3.49. No inflation, "Bah Humbug" falling stock prices puts my 401K into a 201K. NYC got a 20% increase in utility bills, Verizon raised their rates, last but not least NYC landlords got to reap the benefits of this recession by getting a 6% increase on new leases with a $60.00 surcharge.
 
Either you raise the limits that a person can work and collect disability or Social Security for those under 65 or 66 or give us a raise. Take away this ridiculous Medicare Part D incorporate into Medicare Part B.
 
Thanks for reading my complaint please present it on the house floor.
 
Patricia Rauch
3081 Villa Avenue Apt 5H
Bronx, NY 10468-1363
Phone 718-220-0270
Registered Democrat