Two years. That’s how long my sister-in-law Kathy fought an aggressive and devastating uterine cancer. Two years of grueling treatments, exhausting hospital stays, and painful moments of helplessness. Two years that could have been different – if only she had access to affordable biomarker testing.

Kathy was a mother first. When faced with the decision of whether to pay $2,500 for biomarker testing – a test that could have guided her toward a life-saving hysterectomy – she hesitated. Not because she didn’t want to know, but because, like so many caregivers, she put her child first.

My 46-year-old niece, Jenny, has Down syndrome. Kathy worried about the cost, about the future, about everything except herself. In the end, she didn’t get the test. And she didn’t get the chance to make the choice that could have saved her life.

Tragically, my brother, Jenny’s father, also lost his life to cancer caused by Agent Orange exposure. That left Jenny in my care. As her aunt and now her guardian, I carry not just the weight of my grief, but the responsibility of ensuring she has the love, support, and security she needs. This could have been prevented. No family should have to endure this kind of loss when they have the means.

I am championing legislation that will make biomarker testing accessible for all who are in need. As the Chair of the Aging Committee, I am championing a bill with overwhelming bipartisan and bicameral support – over 62 co-sponsors from every party, every chamber, and every caucus in the General Assembly. This is not about politics; this is about saving lives.

Biomarker testing is the key to precision medicine. It helps doctors tailor treatments, avoid unnecessary procedures, and, most importantly, give patients and families a fighting chance. It should not be a privilege for those who can afford it, but a standard of care.

We have the opportunity to prevent stories like mine from happening to others. We have the chance to pass this bill and ensure that no family is forced to choose between financial stability and life-saving medical decisions.

Let’s do what’s right. Let’s pass this bill and give every Connecticut family the chance they deserve.

State Rep. Jane Garibay represents the 60th District, Windsor and Windsor Locks, in the Connecticut House of Representatives.