Grandmother with Multiple Conditions Accesses Care With Gas Cards
A Complicated History
"I was healthy for most of my life." Deborah chooses to begin her story with posititivity. In her younger years, she only had two surgeries after the birth of her two sons. Then, in 2019 and 2020, she was diagnosed with lung cancer. "I unfortunately smoked," admitted Deborah, "and I quit after my lung cancer diagnosis."
But just like a snowball gets bigger and heavier as it rolls down a hill, Deborah's health took a turn for the worse. In 2021, the cancer spread to her brain. "I had surgery and radiation for that," said Deborah, "and it affected my vision and balance." It also required months of follow-ups, which turned into years.
Adding to the pile of problems, in 2023 she was diagnosed with bladder cancer. Finally, in 2025, the bladder cancer went into remission. But she still needed treatments, scans, and checkups for her brain.
Distance and Needing Assistance
Deborah soon discovered another side of sickness: accessing distant medical care. The best doctors that could help her were at Emory in Atlanta, Georgia. She lives in a smaller town that's more than one hour away from Emory. Travel is a struggle for her.
"I'm not allowed to drive," said Deborah, "so I have to rely on my son or my daughter-in-law. If they can't help, sometimes the local senior center will give me a ride. Or I have to take Lyft, which can get very expensive."
It soon became clear to Deborah and her family that she would need further assistance getting to her care. But they weren't sure where to turn. "I was getting overwhelmed," said Deborah.
"All This Keeps Me Going"
That was when Deborah found out about Mercy Medical Angels and their ground transportation program. Mercy Medical Angels' ground transportation program sent her gas cards. Now, her family didn't have to worry about the cost of driving back and forth to doctor's appointments.
"The gas cards covered two round trips," said Deborah. "That meant a lot. Despite my health challenges, I hold onto my determination and keep a good attitude. And I have to stay alive for my granddaughter."
"Plus, with Mercy Medical Angels sending the gas cards, I can access the care I need. All this keeps me going."
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