The vitamins and medications that flow through the tube help Claire, who has a rare genetic condition, survive. Without their commitment and round-the-clock care, Claire would live in a hospital or institution, or possibly, tragically, not be here at all. Because they don’t get enough help, parents can become overwhelmed or depressed, she says. A hospital social worker recommended she apply for the Medi-Cal and Home and Community-Base Alternatives (HCBA) waiver programs, which would cover Claire’s medical care. She writes on topics related to health care, social justice, and maternal and child well-being.