We met Buffy and Jeremy in the midst of the Democratic National Convention at a house party hosted by the Cover America Tour to meet locals and document their health care stories. We were glad that this young couple, with four-year-old daughter Fiona in tow, showed up ready and willing to talk health care with us.

It’s like a joke, Buffy said. They only make about $12,000 a year but it’s still above what a family of three can make to qualify for help. Unable to afford health insurance, she and Jeremy live without coverage.

Fortunately, Fiona qualifies for a state children’s health plan – but that presents problems in and of itself.

Reapplying for the program, which used to be an annual ordeal, is now required every six months by the government. Getting together all the necessary the paperwork and going through the application process takes so long that by the time her daughter is approved, it’s practically time to start all over again. The sheer amount of time it takes to apply, coupled with the fact that they never know for sure if Fiona will be re-approved, is a constant stress on the family.

Buffy has considered getting a part-time job to supplement Jeremy’s stipend as a PhD student, but worries any extra income will mean Fiona will be disqualified for the state program. It’s not a sacrifice she’s willing to make, even if it means extra income.

It’s a Catch-22 for these young parents wanting to better their financial situation and find a way to get health care. For now, Buffy will continue to stay at home and watch Fiona with one eye to the part-time job market, tracking the calendar for the next application deadline to make sure at least Fiona hangs onto her health coverage.

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