Names of the Dead

Theron David Read was one of the millions of working Americans who have been left uninsured over the past two decades. Like many small businesses in Utah and throughout America, his employer did not offer group health insurance. Born with congenital heart disease, he was also among the millions of Americans who are currently unable to purchase private coverage, due to pre-existing conditions. As a single male, he was not eligible for Medicaid coverage. Living as a frugal individual, Theron did not own a car or a home, and although he worked full time he was not as interested in material wealth as other men his age so often are. He was a poet, an actor and a philosopher, and was often described by his friends as one of the kindest, most generous individuals they had ever met. He was a doting uncle to his niece and nephews, and treasured his family ties. Because he did not have health insurance coverage, he went without his required medications for most of his adult life. Many of his friends would try to help as they were able to, by purchasing his prescriptions or through other means, but in the end, their efforts were not enough. On July 20, 2009, he had a heart attack and passed away on the TRAX train, on his way to work. Theron was just 44 years old at the time of his passing, and was mourned by hundreds of people on the Facebook group memorial page which was set up by his friends after his death. His writings are set to be archived by the University of Utah as a way to preserve his legacy for the future.