Zebulon free clinic in dire straits, needs public's help
ZEBULON, N.C. (WTVD) -- Laid off from her job and out of money, Shepherd's Care Medical Clinic was Gail Davis' last resort. The Type 1 diabetic was struggling to buy medication and desperate for help.
"They saved my life," said Davis. "If I hadn't have found this place, my parents would have ended up on the street trying to help me pay for everything that I needed."
Shepherd's Care Medical Clinic is the only free clinic of its kind in eastern Wake County. It is now serving more than 700 uninsured and chronically ill patients.
It was the brainchild of Leona Doner, a nurse who's walked in her patients' shoes.
"A few years ago, if I had to choose between putting food on my table or going to the doctor and getting my medicine, I'd put food on the table first, and that's what a lot of these patients are like," said Doner.
Doner started the non-profit in 2010 with just 25 patients and the help of donations.
As more people learned about the clinic, a state grant allowed her to expand service to four days a week. However, it runs out soon, and Shepherd's Care Medical Clinic is growing faster than the amount of money coming in.
A lack of funding could stop a much-needed expansion in its tracks. The clinic's rent is about to double.
"With the grant going away, we'll no longer have money to pay a provider or receptionist or a nurse," said Doner. "My heart hurts every time I think there's a possibility the doors will close."
Davis now volunteers at the nonprofit, helping other patients get free medication. She hopes the clinic that saved her life can be saved from shutting down.
"I know I'm alive because of this place," said Davis. "I hope this place is able to stay open to provide."
To learn more about Shepherd's Care Medical Clinic or to donate, click here: http://www.shepherdscareclinic.com/cms/.
