Agreed, Ki-Adi. Healthcare should be free for all, especially those who cannot afford to pay for it privately.
Healthcare is indeed free (government funded, through taxes) in the UK. This brings its own problems, however. I work for an organization that provides healthcare for disabled people, and appealing to the government for funding can be every bit as frustrating as trying to pry money from the greedy hands of the insurance companies.
I deal with funding related healthcare issues every working day, and it irritates me that I have to spend my time doing this when I could be spending that time looking after the people I am paid to care for.
I guess that this is a personal bug-bear of mine, but it is a real-world issue that affects millions of people who, through no fault of their own, need medical attention that they just can't afford. The fact that greedy insurance companies and misinformed governments stand in the way of that care is, in my opinion, one of the greatest travesties of the civilized world.
I think every one here is thinking of Chowser's predicament, and it warms my heart to see the generosity of those who have contributed to the raffle. Remember, this is not just about winning, it is about making a difference and taking on a personal responsibility for the welfare of others.
It is a tribute to us all that we even bother, there are many that wouldn't.
That said, the more the merrier, so keep on giving, guys...
Sorry for the rant, I'll get off my soapbox now.