On the very day that the Senate passed its watered-down Health Care Reform Bill, Vic Chesnutt decided to end it all, taking an overdose of muscle relaxants and leaving behind a note. For anyone who has enjoyed his music, this is a very sad Christmas.

I wish I could say that Vic Chesnutt is the final victim of the current American health care "system", but the battle ahead of us is far from over.

If you ever want to check out his music, his catalogue of albums is beautiful and impressive. For Leonard Cohen fans in particular, I recommend his album arranged by Van Dyke Parks, "Ghetto Bells" as a starting point.

R.I.P. Vic.

I never met you, but it saddens me greatly that our great nation did not have a program in place to help you through your darkest hours.

To his friends and family, I (and I hope others here also) offer heartfelt condolences.

We have unfinished business here, folks. Let's get the current HC bill fixed and passed. Do it for Vic.

And Ted.

As well as for everyone else you know who needs medical help and cannot receive any because of the current system.

Peace be with you.