Whilst in a queue at the NY art book fair, I overheard a conversation
between two older women.
One of them was saying how much her hearing aid cost.
I can’t remember the exact figure, but it was hundreds of dollars.
Her friend then pointed out that it was a scandal that it wasn’t covered
by their health insurance.
The woman replied, yes, but it’s okay for me, because i can afford it,
but think of all the people who can’t.
Her friend said, yes, and I would have thought that hearing is
something that’s kind of universal.
Sure the woman replied, and shook her head.
Her friend shook her head too.
They both waited in the queue in silence after that.
Sometimes I would like to collect all the head shakes from people,
and send them to whoever’s in charge.
I would label the box:
this is the way it shouldn’t be. 

—
By Buffy
Photograph by Sasha

Tags:  American Dream healthcare inequality politics