Saint Vincent Clinic - A United Way Agency
“If it wasn’t for them, I wouldn’t be alive”
When Sandra “aged out” of her parent’s medical insurance and her new job did not provide benefits, Sandra suddenly found herself with no insurance. Fortunately, coworker told her about Saint Vincent Clinic and in 2002 Sandra began visiting the clinic for regular check-ups and acute care.
In 2007 Sandra noticed what she thought was a spider bite on her back. A few days later the spot was bigger. She made an appointment to see Dr. Linda Campbell at Saint Vincent Clinic. After a week of observation, Sandra was referred for a biopsy.
The biopsy revealed that the “spider bite” was possibly something more ominous. A CT scan was immediately ordered. The scan showed that the mass was malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor, a type of cancer. Dr. Campbell counseled Sandra on the implications of the malignancy and helped her learn about this type of cancer. While not immediately life-threatening, the tumor needed to be removed. Dr. Campbell then located a surgeon to remove the tumor. The surgery was successful and there has been no re-occurrence. From the point of initial contact through the recovery period Dr. Campbell monitored Sandra and provided follow-up examinations. Sandra received reassurance and personal care that allowed her to continue to work during this stressful period.
Sandra is grateful to those involved in her diagnosis, treatment and recovery. “I believe if it wasn’t for them I wouldn’t be alive” she says. “I really appreciate everyone who contributes to the clinic, because otherwise people like me wouldn’t have any health care. The clinic is a regular doctor’s office and helps out a lot.”
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