Lori’s story
Thirty years in an abusive marriage left marks on Lori R.: a broken and dislocated jaw that would lock randomly, enough stress to make the jaw clinch and grind, 16 teeth lost, and excrutiating headaches. Out of work and with no health insurance, Lori was unable to do anything but go to the Multnomah County Health Department‘s Mobile Medical Clinic.
“I’d never been in that position in my life,” Lori said. “We had a home and jobs with medical insurance. Then we lost the home to pay for my husband’s medical bills, and after he died, I had nothing.”
At the Mobile Clinic, Dr. Valerie Krause referred Lori to Project Access with a disorder of jaw muscles. Less than a year later, in September 2009, Lori underwent oral surgery at OHSU.
“It’s been a lifesaver. I don’t know how to pay all this forward. I am thankful, but I don’t feel that’s enough.”
As part of her recovery, Lori attends physical therapy sessions and takes pain medication and muscle relaxants she obtains through Pharmacy Bridge.
According to Lori, “The process has been smooth as a baby’s bottom. I can’t say enough about this program. Everyone’s been accommodating, compassionate, and helpful. They would direct me if you didn’t know what do to.
“I’d thought that because I was in poverty, I’d get different treatment. But I never felt treated differently than patients with insurance. It’s the most positive experience with healthcare I’ve ever had. It restored my faith in humanity. There are still people out there for you.”
(February 2010)
Photo credit: Andie Petkus Photography
