I drive to Seattle for almost all of my medical care. I’ve had the same internist for 28 years and plan to continue with him — and I’m lucky to have good health.

I’m all set. So why should I care so deeply about providing accessible health care on Vashon Island for those who are less fortunate than me?

My mom recently died in Colorado at 99. Her doctors were about 25 minutes from her home. It would have been very hard for her — frail in her last years — to travel farther to see a doctor. Now I think of our Vashon elders being forced to travel off island for care.

I think of our families with young children. Like many kids, mine had illnesses and accidents including stitches and casts, often at very inconvenient times. We were fortunate to have had care nearby.

If some of our residents are not served by accessible health care, if some are not able to stay as healthy as possible, then the quality of our care is diminished.

We are a community. We look out for each other. That’s why I care.

— Lin Holley