Senator Kennedy died. I met Ted Kennedy in person twice in two milestones of my life. Once to tell him about Salem where they care for abandoned and abused kids - and he wrote me a personal check to support Salem - and once he encouraged me to speak out and stand up on the important issues of our time on the radio. The last legislation he sponsored and helped pass was the Family Opportunity Act. States can now expand Medicaid coverage to children with special needs, allowing low- and middle-income families with disabled children  to purchase coverage under the Medicaid program. For many disabled children, Medicaid is the only health insurance program offering sufficient benefits to cover the required care, such as physical therapy and medical equipment. The Family Opportunity Act allows parents of disabled children to go to work and earn above poverty wages without losing coverage for their children. Senator Edward M. Kennedy the "liberal lion of the Senate," championed health care reform, working wages and equal rights. He was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom -- the nation's highest civilian honor -- by President Obama- Senator Ted Kennedy - February 22, 1932 - August 26, 2009 - May you rest in peace.