Success Story: Debbie and the Pharmacy Program

For many people in our community, access to affordable healthcare is a real issue. Even when they know they need to see a doctor, financial problems may prevent them from receiving the care they need. When that happens, it can destabilize an individual’s or a family’s ability to support themselves financially. That was the case for Debbie, but because of the high impact United Way of Central Florida partner program at Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine, her crisis was averted. Here’s her story, in her words:

In 2010, I quit drinking alcohol and subsequently lost 50 pounds. That I am especially thankful for because I don’t think I would have felt the lump in my neck in March of 2012 with the weight still on my body. Within the next two months, I noticed a lump in my groin and more in my neck and jaw. Frightened, I didn’t know what to do since I don’t have health insurance.

In June, I went to a local clinic and asked to see a doctor. Luckily, because of a cancelation, I was able to see the doctor within a few weeks. After two weeks of blood work and an examination, I was told after 2 visits that the lump felt smaller and to come back in 3 months.

Still very scared and desperate, that same morning, I drove to Lakeland Volunteers in Medicine where I had been a patient in the past. With tears in my eyes, I asked if past patients were allowed to come back. I was introduced to Lee, LVIM’s Volunteer Coordinator, and he made magic happen for me that day. I explained what was wrong, and what I had been through trying to get the help I so desperately needed. After making sure I re-qualified, Lee took me to Dr. Stapleton. When she heard my symptoms, she worked me in that very morning.

It was so comforting to be in such wonderful, caring, and qualified hands! Dr. Stapleton ordered blood tests, x-rays, and a biopsy. My biopsy was on July 25, 2012, and on August 2nd, I was called by Dr. Lamm, another physician at LVIM, and told that I had Lymphoma. Not only was I fighting cancer, I also had high blood pressure and high cholesterol, as well as anxiety stemming from my diagnosis.

After my diagnosis, they helped in every way possible to get me into Moffit Center. I soon began chemotherapy, and needed weekly blood draws. This was another obstacle as Moffit is in Tampa. Lee made it possible for me to come to LVIM for my weekly blood draws and to have my results faxed to Moffit. This allowed me to miss as little time as possible from my job. I also received my medication free of charge so that I could manage my blood pressure and cholesterol.
As of today, I am in remission.