Brandy’s Journey From Patient to Volunteer
Brandy’s Journey From Patient to Volunteer
In 2020, Brandy found herself in a challenging situation. Pregnant and working a job that did not provide health insurance, her options seemed extremely limited. The cost of prenatal care and delivery was overwhelming. After visiting the Lennon Pregnancy Center, she was given a list of places to call for help. Fortunately, she found her way to The Luke Clinic. Even today, four years later, Brandy becomes tearful when she recalls the relief she felt after her first visit. “Everyone was so gracious to me,” she remembers. “A part of me expected judgment for being pregnant and a single mom at a Christian Clinic. Instead, I was welcomed and loved.”
With a background as a medical assistant, Brandy now volunteers at The Luke Clinic with her four-year-old daughter, CJ. “I want to teach CJ to give back,” she explains. “I always tell her how The Luke Clinic helped us, and now we can pay it forward and help others. We have been given so much, and I love to give her the opportunity to pass on what we have to others so she can be a part of this incredible ministry. We benefited from the kindness of others, and it feels empowering and a joy to give back to others in the same situation I was in.
Brandy and CJ have had the best experience volunteering at The Luke Clinic. “We are a part of the clinic family, and it feels right to be here. I am so thrilled to work alongside the staff who cared for CJ and me. We were welcomed as volunteers, and it feels so good to help wherever we are needed on a clinic day. I want to be as much help as possible—whether donating toys and clothes or serving as volunteers wherever we can be of use.
So far, Brandy and CJ have helped in various capacities:
Childcare: Providing a safe and fun environment for the children of patients.
The Baby Closet: Assisting moms in finding clothes and diapers for their children.
Medical Assistance: Utilizing Brandy’s skills as a medical assistant in the clinic.
“Every time we are here, I am just so happy to give back and share this wonderful experience with my daughter,” Brandy says.
Brandy’s story is a powerful example of how support and kindness can come full circle. From a patient in need to a dedicated volunteer, her journey embodies the spirit of The Luke Clinic. Her dedication to giving back and teaching her daughter the importance of helping others is truly inspiring.
At The Luke Clinic, we are grateful for volunteers like Brandy and CJ, who enrich our community and help us continue our mission of providing compassionate care to those in need. Their story reminds us of the impact we can have on each other’s lives and the importance of paying kindness forward.
