Regarding “Affordable Care Act premiums for Texas expected to rise in 2026,” (Dec. 30): Kidney disease runs deep in my family. My grandfather had kidney
disease in the 1930s when few treatments even existed. My mother started dialysis in the 1980s and lived in constant fear of being dropped by her clinic due to coverage issues. I started dialysis in 2009 and stayed on it until 2023. On Sept.16, 2023, I received a kidney transplant from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston. To God be the glory! I am deeply grateful, but I also know my journey isn’t over.
Throughout my care, I saw firsthand how treatments have improved. But I also have seen so many patients still being left behind in their plan of care. New therapies, like those that treat pruritus, anemia, phosphorus imbalance and infections, can make life better and more stable for kidney patients. But too often, they’re out of reach.
Now that I no longer have to go to dialysis three times a week, I’m committed to running the torch of hope and prosperity for others like me. That’s why I’m urging congressmen like the U.S. Rep. Brian Babin (R-TX) to pass the Kidney Care Access Protection Act. This bipartisan bill would help ensure that innovative treatments are available to more patients, and help keep clinics open in communities that need them.
We’ve come a long way since my grandfather’s time. Let’s not stop here.
LaRonda Jones, Houston, Texas
