Family Stories

Real families. Real experiences. Real stakes.

Families across Pennsylvania are sharing how Medicaid-funded care and services affect their children’s health, safety, independence, and ability to remain at home. Their stories show what Medicaid makes possible, where families are already facing gaps, and what could be lost if funding is reduced. Watch the family interviews below to learn what Medicaid makes possible and what is at risk.

What’s at stake when Medicaid is cut?

Kelly and Nate’s story shows the difference Medicaid-funded supports can make and what families could stand to lose when that funding is cut. Their story is about raising a child with Marshall Syndrome, a rare genetic disorder.

sHARING the importance of Medicaid and home nursing

Meet the Mierta Family, Alyssa Mierta and her two sons, Jethro and Jeremiah, from Lehigh County. Jethro is 11 and his diagnosis is spastic quadriplegic cerebral palsy, occasional seizures, and cortical visual impairment. Jeremiah is 13 and his diagnosis is Type 1 diabetes, autism, and ADHD.

wHAT DOES MEDICAID COVER FOR THIS FAMILY

Ian is their middle child and is 9 years old. He was diagnosed with Mitochondrial Disease. In order to live a full and robust life he needs a catheter, various medicines, a G-tube for medicines and feedings, and a medical stroller. He attends school and participates in activities with his family. All of this is possible due to Medicaid but still appeals need to be made to make sure that he has the necessary hours for nursing and medical equipment.

For Family Members of Children with Developmental Disabilities and/or Complex Medical Needs

Help us show what medicaid makes possible

Share how Medicaid- funded services support your child and family, where gaps already exist and what reduced funding could mean for you or your family