Emmanuel was born at just 23 weeks gestation, weighing little more than a pound. His twin passed away shortly after birth, and Emmanuel spent the first 11 months of his life in the hospital, fighting for survival. His diagnoses include extreme cerebral palsy, chronic lung disease, a seizure disorder, and global developmental delays. He depends on a ventilator to breathe, a feeding tube for nutrition, and a shunt in his brain to regulate fluid. He does not verbally communicate and requires full support for all aspects of daily living.

Without Medicaid, Emmanuel would never have been able to come home. The extensive hospital care he needed as an infant was largely covered by Medicaid, and today, his ongoing medical needs are far beyond what private insurance will cover. Emmanuel receives 20 hours of private duty nursing each day, the majority of which is funded by Medicaid through MLTSS (Managed Long Term Services and Supports). This care is not a luxury—it is essential. It allows Emmanuel to remain at home with his family rather than being institutionalized. It allows me, as his mother, to work, to contribute to my community, and to continue serving as an educator. Without Medicaid, our family's stability would be in jeopardy.

Medicaid is not just about healthcare; it is about dignity, independence, and the right to live in a supportive home environment. It allows families like mine to provide the care our loved ones need without being financially ruined by insurmountable medical costs. The thought of losing Medicaid coverage is terrifying—not only for us but for millions of families across New Jersey who rely on it for survival.”

-Issata Oluwadare, Mother and Advocate