Distraught, unable to eat or sleep, Arnold James (AJ) was desperate to find immediate medical attention. AJ’s wife of over 30 years suffered a massive heart attack and was in the hospital. Unfortunately, AJ was in the process of switching insurance carriers during this time and his new insurance had not kicked in yet. AJ tried to get in to see his regular doctor, but because of his insurance situation, the doctor’s office would not return his phone calls to be seen. AJ, grieving for his sick wife and suffering from high blood pressure, borderline diabetes and high cholesterol, needed medical care.

            AJ went to The Children’s Clinic main site. He arrived to a waiting room full of children and was skeptical about being seen at a facility for children. However, desperate for help, he went to the check in counter. The main Clinic did not have any availability, but they immediately referred him to the new satellite Clinic on Pine Avenue, which had been open for exactly one day. That day marked the first of 26 visits to The Children’s Clinic. AJ was seen by Dr. Patty Bellas, who in the patient’s own words, “was sent to him by God”. Dr. Bellas took the time to really listen to AJ and help him through the grieving process. Regretfully, AJ’s wife suddenly passed away several days later. Dr. Bellas took her own time to call AJ and check in on him, even when he didn’t have a scheduled appointment. Although AJ still has hard days, he attributes his still being here, emotionally and physically, to Dr. Bellas and The Children’s Clinic.

Quote: Part of God’s program to make a way for you is to put good people around you who are gifted to help you get where you need to go. Some of these people will just show up in your life, sent by God at just the right time.