Jane’s story
Jane D. lived in fear of cervical cancer for two years. Her post-menopausal bleeding had her constantly worried about what was going on with her body and whether it meant something more grave.
She went to the Rosewood Family Health Center, where she received help, but with no insurance she had to delay the surgical procedure she knew she needed. “I kept putting the surgery off because I knew I couldn’t afford it,” she said.
In March 2008, Jane’s physician, Dr. Jimenez, mentioned Project Access to her, and Rosewood’s program liaison helped her apply. At the end of April, Jane got accepted into the program.
The welcome form letter included a hand-written note from someone at Project Access, saying, “Welcome, Jane.” Jane said, “When I read that I felt like crying. It meant so much to me that I could go ahead and have the procedure.”
Accepting assistance didn’t come easy for Jane. “In our individualistic society we learn we must take care of ourselves and our families,” she said. “It’s hard to accept charity when it’s not in your value system.”
Jane underwent the surgery in May and her follow-up visit went well. She said, “Everything went smoothly. All the nurses, doctors, and staff were simply fabulous. Doctor Dyson and Doctor Bolton at Providence Portland Medical Center were both very professional. I was well informed what was needed and what was going to happen next.”
“I am so thankful to every single person who helped, I don’t know what I would have done without the program. The efficiency and professionalism and integrity of everyone left me speechless. I’ll do everything I can to help other people get the care they need.”
