Dear Senator/Representative,

I’m writing to you not just as a voter and taxpayer here in Oklahoma, but as a mother.

My 5-year-old son Charlie is autistic. He also has sensory processing disorder, expressive language delay, ADHD, and retained primitive reflexes. These are big diagnoses for such a little person—but Charlie is so much more than his challenges. He’s joyful, curious, musical, and loving. And like every child, he deserves the chance to thrive.

Charlie’s ability to grow and succeed depends on consistent access to high-quality providers and services through Medicaid—our SoonerCare program. His speech therapy, occupational therapy, and behavioral supports are essential lifelines. They help him communicate, regulate, and engage with the world around him.

I’m deeply concerned about the proposed changes to Medicaid under the “One Big Beautiful Bill.” The increased bureaucracy, re-determination every six months, and looming provider funding cuts seem like small adjustments on paper. Yet, for families like mine, they create barriers. These barriers will lead to devastating service disruptions.

Charlie cannot afford to lose access to care due to paperwork complications or shrinking provider networks. He cannot wait on years-long waitlists because funding dries up or providers shut their doors. His window for early intervention is now, and we cannot waste it fighting red tape.

I respectfully urge you to oppose any legislation that weakens Medicaid coverage or adds burdens that harm children with disabilities. I ask that you stand up for Oklahoma families. They rely on these services not because they want a handout. They use them because they’re working every day to give their kids the support they deserve.

Please protect Medicaid. Please protect Charlie.

With hope,

Sarah English

Mother of Charlie

Tulsa, Oklahoma