As Mike Smith's husband of almost 30 years, I'm writing to express my deep concern and frustration. My spouse, Mike, is a heart transplant patient who periodically requires admission to INOVA Fairfax hospital's CTU4 unit. Throughout his treatment journey, my presence has been integral in helping him navigate this challenging time - aiding him in tasks such as eating, bathing, and providing much-needed emotional support. 

However, INOVA hospital has inexplicably denied us the basic right of overnight visitation. We’ve been informed that the hospital does not "offer" this support to us, yet it does allow heterosexual couples these same privileges. Despite our repeated attempts, INOVA has disregarded our appeals for equality and refuses to discuss the matter further.

Given Mike’s overall health, the probability of us having many more years together is uncertain. The possibility of Mike having to live out these difficult times alone is not only terrifying but a clear violation of the rights we should enjoy as a married couple. This discriminatory policy is not only affecting us but also hundreds of other LGBT couples who are in a similar predicament. 

The law is explicit, under the Affordable Care Act, discrimination based on sexual orientation in a healthcare setting is prohibited. We plea to INOVA hospital to comply with the law and ensure that every patient, regardless of their sexual orientation, is afforded the same rights and care. The right to emotional support in life's most testing times should not be dictated by one's sexual orientation.

Therefore, we ask for your support in urging INOVA hospital to revise its policy and allow equal overnight visitation rights for all couples, particularly those within the LGBT community. Sign this petition to stand with us for equality and demand INOVA to respect and uphold basic human rights.