For many years, the world has come to know President Julius Nyerere as a pioneer for change.

As the world mourns the death of President Julius Nyerere, I wish to send the deepest condolences to the people of Tanzania.

He was committed to his people and was a leader whose only ambition was to build a strong nation and a solid future for Africa.

He stood tall and spoke up against African strongmen and brutal dictators like Uganda's Idi Amin and the minority rule in South Africa.

He returned to his modest farm, but remained a powerful voice for peace and a relentless ambassador for the needs of Africans and the African continent.

That is why it is also vital for Congress to pass meaningful and necessary patient protections that will help give millions of Americans the tools they need to end HMO abuses and hold HMOs accountable.

The justices will review an Illinois case about whether patients can sue HMO plans that give doctors bonuses to keep treatment costs down.

Millions of Americans already believe that HMOs that limit medical treatment to cut costs and increase profits should be held accountable in a court of law.

That is why the Supreme Court decision to review this case is so critical.

The United States Supreme Court will soon hear a case that will have far reaching consequences for millions of health maintenance organization patients.

It is also vital for Congress to pass meaningful and necessary patient protections that will help give millions of Americans the tools they need to end HMO abuses and hold HMOs accountable.

Finally, we must translate our local efforts to the national stage so people like Sherol Boles are given the chance to live the American dream.