Maureen

She didn’t look like a free clinic patient. She was attractive, dressed in a classical style, fit  and  trim. But, here she was… at the free clinic. She had been a patient here for almost a year before I met her and heard her story.

For 40 years she was married to a financial planner; they had the world on a string – a lovely home, two children, trips, and cars… pretty much a dream life. Until it became a nightmare.

She never suspected. It turns out her husband had embezzled hundreds of thousands of dollars from his clients. She never suspected, and still blames herself at some level.

She was another of his victims – he not only stole her retirement fund, but when he went to jail for his crimes, she lost everything. The house, the cars, the lifestyle. And, she lost herself.

In a heartbeat, she went from being a “have” to being a “have-not.” She has learned the harsh truths of the world in the worst possible way. She moved to another state with one of her children – she worked, but was uninsured. And, she was unable to obtain care.

Then life dealt her another blow – her mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. So she returned here, to her hometown, to be the caregiver. For those of you who have walked this path – you know how difficult it is – mentally, physically, and emotionally. It is a 24/7 job with no benefits – no time off – and it takes a toll.

She came here for medications to control her diabetes and blood pressure. The night I met her was her last time here; she is now 65 and qualifies for Medicare. So, now she will have real healthcare.

Her story reminds me of how vulnerable we all are; we never know what is around the corner. Life can seem easy and good, but most of us are just two paychecks away from needing the support of our community. That is a pretty humbling thought.