Stories from Grateful Patients: Deborah

October 5, 2023
Cancer patient during treatment

In Her Own Words...

"In January 2019, I felt a small lump on my thyroid. Since I have a thyroid problem, I got it checked out by my doctor.  My doctor sent me to the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) for diagnosis and treatment. After several doctor visits and tests, I was told I had Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma Large Cell-B aggressive. I would have to have 6 chemo treatments to take place at UAMS Little Rock, Arkansas, which is a 400-mile round trip."


"I live in Randolph County, Arkansas. My sister comes from Jonesboro and picks me up so I can go to UAMS Cancer Institute for my doctor’s visits and treatments. During a person’s time of illness, things get hard to deal with. The mounting medical bills and the illness itself put together make it very stressful. The long distance, number of trips, and high price of gas also takes its toll." 


"Since the diagnosis, I have searched for assistance, but I was unable to find any. I have to be off work for 7 months because of my illness. I am struggling to pay for gas and medical bills."


"Then, I found out about Mercy Medical Angels’ ground transportation program, Angel Wheels. It has been a blessing to receive the gas cards. The gas cards take a big burden away. Being able to get to my treatments means more than anyone would know. Thanks to you, there is hope for the future."


~Deborah 


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