I am a person in the United States without health insurance. I also do not make a lot of money, but frugality and hard work make up for that.

I'm 28 and in good health. Recently, I developed an ear infection, nothing debilitating but definitely hindering. I knew I needed an antibiotic to clear it up. I decided to see a doctor.

The doctor's visit wasn't too bad. It was only $130. The doctor told me what I already knew, I needed an antibiotic. He prescribed me one and off I went.

Then I paid for the antibiotic -- $280 for 10 pills. That is ridiculous! How do the medical companies justify this? Ten stupid antibiotic pills. Really?

I don't want to be yoked into paying for health insurance, but it's either buy insurance or skip groceries this month. I can't do any of those, so I guess I have to skip Christmas.

I would pay that much monthly as well for insurance, because I don't get insurance through my employer.

I shouldn't have to decide between groceries, Christmas, or my health over a stupid ear infection.

Merry Christmas, pharmaceutical fat cats.

TERREN KISSLER, Richland