As I mentioned, this Blog is not just about politics but about my life.

And in my life, I care for my Dad who is not in the best of health. Through this caregiving process, I spend countless hours at the VA Hospital in Houston – our country’s own version of “socialized” medicine.

We clearly think it is good enough for our veterans but as citizens, we balk at “that kind of care”.

Yesterday was one of those critical Emergency Room visits and I was so impressed with the response. Let me tell you, I know that ER so well that the nurses greet by name upon arrival. Dad and I visit it frequently.

However, yesterday was different. My Dad was really, really sick this time. We walked through the door and within minutes were the center of attention. Doctors were with him from the moment we arrived (about noon) until after I left at 6:30 last night. He had the undivided attention of nurses and doctors and amazing care.

We have spent our fair share of hours waiting around to see a Doc when in the ER – particularly when it was something manageable but still needing attention – i.e. a bronchial cough, a nose bleed, etc.

However, even in these circumstances, I have always found the care top-notch and the staff compassionate and incredibly patient.

By the end of yesterday, however, I was counting my blessings. My spouse had said that he wished Dad could go to the hospital near our home as it would be so much easier. But as I watched the amazing doctors work on my Dad, I knew he would never have received that level of care anywhere else.

Here’s the thing – my Dad could easily afford to access health care in another manner. He chooses to use the services of the VA. He likes his primary care Doctor, he likes the comraderie of visiting with other veterans and he trusts the staff completely.

I’m also impressed with the electronic records and how quickly they can access information from our past visits.

Politicians have a lot to say about health care. In fact, I think Congress will vote in the next few days – at least in the House – to repeal the Health Care law passed last year.

And yet, we think the people that served our country should be rewarded with a different kind of health care system. Maybe Members of Congress should be required to utilize the VA system and learn what it is truly all about.

Today, I’m incredibly grateful and thankful for the amazing teams at the Houston VA Hospital.