Mary’s story

When Mary’s severe cold in the winter of 2008 turned into a chronic sinus infection, she sought help at Portland Adventist Community Services (PACS). With no health insurance, PACS was the only place Mary could find.

The sinus infection wouldn’t go away, however. She said, “I couldn’t look for a job. I was in constant pain and coughing all the time.”

Nancy Huck, nurse practitioner at PACS, referred Mary to Project Access, and in January 2009 Mary began to see Dr. Sautter, otolaryngologist at OHSU.

In spite of a much more aggressive treatment, the infection persisted. Mary was scheduled for a sinus surgery, which she underwent in July.

“Dr. Sautter and everyone at OHSU were amazing and very professional,” Mary said. “I was treated as if I were a paying patient.”

Project Access coordinated the whole process, including medications. In Mary’s words, “All the information they sent me was very clear. What to do, where to go, how to work with volunteer physicians so that I can get the best care possible. They even scheduled appointments. It’s a simple process.”

Following the successful surgery, Mary’s recovery lasted all of two weeks. “I am pain free for the first time in 18 months and I’m looking for a job,” Mary said. “I’m very grateful.”

“After the surgery I was able to move ahead with my life,” Mary said. “There’s a huge need, and a lot of people need help. I hope people in the community support Project Access. Hopefully one day soon I can pay back for what I received.”

(August 2009)