Bryan Byrd first came to The Free Clinics for help after a knee injury left him with difficulty walking and pain that woke him up at night. A change in careers meant that he was making less than $25k per year, with two sons in college, and had no insurance at the time to help with treatment.
How did you hear about what TFC does?
“I had previously helped promote the annual Salon fundraiser when I was an advertising consultant for WTZQ Radio and had the opportunity to meet [executive director] Judith Long and hear her speak on several occasions. However, it was Dr. Bryan Hodge [who also volunteers at TFC] that recommended I look into eligibility.”
How did The Free Clinics help you?
“The first thing I remember was how the staff made me feel: human and cared for. They walked me through the eligibility process without judgement, and after an evaluation and x-rays, arranged for me to receive an MRI at Advent (then Park Ridge) at no charge before referring me to a surgeon. During this time I was also able to utilize the pharmacy at The Free Clinics for anti-inflammatories I was prescribed, at a minimal cost. (I ended up not pursuing surgery; however, the diagnosis and consultations that I received with the help of The Free Clinics led me to ultimately receive treatments that have resulted in more mobility and less pain, without drugs or surgery.)”
How has your experience with The Free Clinics changed your life?
“The Free Clinics gave me hope in a time when I felt very hopeless, physically and financially.
I can now walk without pain and exercise without imminent repercussions. I am now self-employed and self-insured, both of which could have been jeopardized if I had not been a patient of The Free Clinics.”
What else do you think people should know about The Free Clinics?
“The Free Clinics is making a difference in the health of folks in our community everyday. I firmly believe that if you look into this organization you will find a cause worthy of your time, talents, and resources. The Free Clinics is not just helping the homeless and unemployed. They are assisting working members of our community, like me, and do so in a way that helps improve health and dignity.”
