​A Calling to Serve – My Journey to The Luke Clinic, Terranie Clarke, Executive Director.

Life has a way of bringing us full circle, leading us to places we never expected but were always meant to be. As I step into the role of Executive Director at The Luke Clinic, I do so with deep humility, profound gratitude, and a heart that beats in rhythm with our mission: to provide compassionate, life-affirming care to mothers and babies who need it most.

My introduction to The Luke Clinic wasn’t as a leader, but as a mother in need. When I first walked through its doors, I was navigating one of the most uncertain seasons of my life. My family had recently relocated, and we didn’t have health insurance. We were desperate for access to quality care.

I will never forget the day I went in for my fetal anatomy scan at the hospital. It was there that I received the life-altering news that I had placenta accreta, a high-risk condition in which the placenta is deeply attached to the uterus. A doctor entered the room and in less than a minute, bluntly declared, “Well, there’s no saving your uterus.” Without another word, she left—leaving my husband and I stunned, with no comfort, and only the painful finality of her words echoing in the silence.

But then, I came to The Luke Clinic.

There, in the warmth of this sanctuary, surrounded by the unwavering compassion of Dr. Gold and the incredible medical team, I was seen. I was valued. They didn’t just recognize my medical condition; they held space for my fears, my hopes, and my humanity. They took the time to explain, comfort, and assure me that I was not alone. This is the difference The Luke Clinic provides—not just medical care, but love in action. And that love changed everything for me.

My pregnancy journey didn’t unfold as I had once dreamed. My daughter was born earlier than expected, and in the process of bringing her safely into this world, I nearly lost my own life. To save me, my doctors had no choice but to perform a hysterectomy. And even though I will never carry another child of my own, in God’s divine plan, He has given me the greatest gift of all—the opportunity to help bring other babies into this world safely, ensuring that other mothers are surrounded with the care and love they deserve. My story, though deeply personal, is not just mine. It is the story of so many mothers who walk through our doors, searching for hope, guidance, and reassurance that they—and their babies—matter.

Now, in this role, I am honored to stand alongside our dedicated board, staff, volunteers, and partners as we further the mission of The Luke Clinic. Together, we will continue to serve, advocate for, and expand our reach, advancing maternal and infant health, one family at a time.

To every mother who walks through our doors—I see you. To every volunteer, donor, and team member who pours their heart into this mission—I thank you. The future of The Luke Clinic is bright, and I am beyond grateful to be part of this sacred work, hand in hand with all of you.