STUART-Having a heart attack is a catastrophe, but imagine having two within the same month with no health insurance. That’s what happened to Stacy Anderson. He had nowhere to go and almost died. His condition improved, once he became a patient at Volunteers in Medicine (VIM) Clinic and he started to feel better.
Anderson went to Lawnwood Regional Medical Center after his first heart attack. They found out he had no health insurance and they referred him to the VIM Clinic. Anderson strongly believes VIM saved his life, because he didn’t know where to get help.
“The doctor gave me medication and it seems to be working. My energy has improved, I can breathe better and I feel healthier,” said Anderson.
His first appointment with Alan Eddison, DNP, ARNP, was productive. Eddison prescribed Anderson, Lisinopril, Isordil, Metoprolol, and Lasix at a low cost. These medications were able to optimize his heart functions and make it easier for the blood to flow through his body. When Anderson first became a patient, his ejection fraction was 15 percent which could cause sudden death. As a result of the medication his ejection fraction improved to more than 30 percent. Anderson feels VIM gave him a second chance at life.
“I probably would have been dead, because there’s no hospital or doctor that would take you without health insurance. I can’t work and I have to work to make money. I’m single and I live by myself. If it wasn’t for Volunteers in Medicine I wouldn’t be able to see a doctor,” said Anderson.
Anderson has a nodule on his lung that’s being closely monitored. Anderson is not worried, he’s certain he’ll make it through. Being a VIM Clinic patient has done wonders for his health. He hasn’t had any heart attacks since becoming a patient.
He’s been a resident in Martin County for 15 years, but he’s originally from Fort Pierce. Before his heart problems, Anderson worked hard to survive. He didn’t have much free time, but when he did he’ll go hunting and fishing.
“I speak very highly of them. If you don’t have anything and doctors won’t see you, try Volunteers in Medicine Clinic,” said Anderson. “I’ve never seen anything like them, very clean and very professional. The people there are nice and they’re helpful.”
We are here to help. Please contact us. The VIM Clinic provides free health care for uninsured Martin County residents. Individuals must have an annual income of $24,120 or less. For more information call 772-463-4128.