Not so long ago, Denise was a woman in need. When she found Saint Vincent Clinic, her most pressing health concern was her uncontrolled diabetes, which among other symptoms was causing her physical pain. However, Denise was also struggling with transportation difficulties and unstable housing and was living at the local homeless shelter. Saint Vincent staff listened to Denise’s concerns and sprang to action. Connecting her with our diabetes specialist to educate and assist in lowering her A1C levels, coordinating transportation for appointments, referring and following up on mental health services as well as setting up physical therapy sessions with our partners at University of Saint Mary, Department of Physical Therapy.

We have Angels among us at Saint Vincent Clinic, and Denise’s journey was guided by one of them. Belinda Klassen, for whom we shared about previously, volunteered her time to ensure transportation was not an obstacle on Denise’s path to wellness, which included her KU Med appointments. Without Belinda’s heart to volunteer her time and efforts, Denise would not have connected with the essential health services or been able to sustain her road to healing. For Belinda, we are truly blessed.

Denise is now on stable ground, and making incredible strides with her health, both mind and body.

To give back to Saint Vincent Clinic, Denise has become an Angel for others in need. She now crochets blankets and donates them to our patients, hoping that they will be a comfort to others during their time of crisis. She is grateful to those who have taken the time to help on her path to recovery and independence and hopes her gift may in some way help someone else as she was helped.