Why do we support Prop. 1? It’s not love of more taxes. No, it is the reality that we can no longer cling to the illusion that federal and state assistance will be here for all of us. One only has to pay even a modicum of attention to this reality. It is up to us to see that we will continue to be provided with essential medical care.

Specifically, this measure continues support of our Hospital District which provides “substantial funding to PeaceHealth Peace Island Medical Center.” Please remember that this is the only hospital serving our entire County. It also provides the only assisted living facility, the Village at the Harbor, in our County. It supports our EMS that is clearly second-to-none. And for those with long-term disability insurance, it also provides the program, Village at Home, a licensed home care service on our island.

The risk of losing these services is very unsettling. If it fails and we see our Hospital District wither in its services, especially to our seniors and youngsters, do any of us have alternative plans? Financial where-with-all to remain here and age in place or move off our beloved island? Shrink the volunteer cadres who have championed and sustained the many activities we currently enjoy?

No…it is us who must not close our eyes to what we need to do: Pass Proposition 1.

Gay Graham and Ron Hanson

San Juan Island