Victory in Colorado.

Army veteran Freddy Lipton, 56, wanted to die in battle. The nursing home resident got his wish, winning a posthumous victory with the Colorado legislature on behalf of state Medicaid recipients.

Under the banner of "No Dignity on a Dollar a Day," Lipton fought to raise the monthly personal needs allowance that Medicaid residents may keep after relinquishing pensions, Social Security payments, and other funds to the state in exchange for care. Last Thanksgiving, he began petitioning, enlisting residents from more than 50 nursing homes. "I hope it snowballs around the country," he said to a standing ovation at the ombudsmen's state conference.

In June, Governor Bill Owens signed legislation raising the monthly allowance from $34 to $50. Despite annual Social Security cost of living adjustments, Colorado's personal needs allowance last increased 12 years ago.

Lipton, resident council president at the Cripple Creek Rehabilitation and Wellness Center, praised staff for their assistance. Activity Director Lisa Noble coordinated mailings, Administrator Jackie Webb provided lists, and Social Services Director Ted Borden chaufeured him to see legislators and attend meetings. Lipton died of cancer just before the legislation passed.