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It's been nearly a year since President Obama became US President, and in the first of

a two-part series, Michael Goldfarb looks at his attempts to reform America's healthcare

system. From the White House and Senate building to hospital emergency rooms, Michael examines

the workings of the American legislative process, as it tries to pass a bill that's both

divided and united the country.

The battle over America's health started out simply, with President Obama making a

low-key address in May of 2009.

In the coming weeks and months, Congress will be engaged in the difficult issue of how

best to reform healthcare in America. I'm committed to building a transparent process where all

views are welcome, but I'm also committed to ensuring that whatever plan we design upholds

three basic principles. First, the rising costs of healthcare must be brought down. Second,

Americans must have the freedom to keep whatever doctor and healthcare plan they have, or

to choose a new doctor or healthcare plan if they want it.

And third, all Americans must have quality, affordable healthcare.

It was a plea to reason for a policy issue that has vexed lawmakers for almost a century.

How to create a health system that every American citizen can use. The White House was confident

that it could get something done and soon. It was sure by the time Congress took its

summer holiday the bill would be passed. Instead, something else happened. America seemed

to go crazy.

The story of this attempt to make sure every American has what citizens of all advanced

...