I'm starting back at Healthcare For The Homeless today!

[Aristus]

Long-time DU-ers know that for the first four years I was in practice, I worked at a clinic that serves our homeless community. It's the most rewarding work I've ever done. But we were providing care under contract to the civic organization that operated the facility we worked in.

In December, 2014, they refused to renew our contract, and instead hired their own medical provider. I went to work at our mainstream clinic instead. I had the opportunity to serve some wonderful patients, and work with some extraordinary, dedicated medical professionals. But it just wasn't the same as working with the homeless. The sense of mission, the feeling of making a difference, it just wasn't there.

Well, we took matters into our own hands, and have opened a brand new clinic reserved solely for the homeless, and the doors just officially opened three minutes ago.

It will probably be slow for the first few days. But I'm so happy to be back where I belong, and I wanted to share this with you.

I love you all...

[femmocrat]

1. Congratulations, Aristus!

The new facility sounds wonderful! Best wishes on your very important mission.

[niyad]

2. that is most excellent news!! so happy for you, and many blessings and thanks for

the work you all do!!

[malthaussen]

3. Good news!

I hope your clinic prospers.

-- Mal

[lunatica]

4. You're one of the reasons I stay here in DU

Last edited Mon Dec 5, 2016, 02:10 PM - Edit history (1)

The best people I never met but who I have the honor of knowing are in DU. You're one of them.

PS. I put in a word with St. Peter at the Pearly toll gate and he says you get to take the fast track to Heaven. No need to stop to pay a toll or anything. You and Hospice workers and those people who lovingly help those in true need.

[Aristus]

6. I'm overwhelmed.

Thank you...

[elleng]

5. Love you, Aristus, for your work, your dedication to your work,

and your friendship here!



Congrats!

[Aristus]

7. Aw, thank you...

[sheshe2]

8. Perfect timing Aristus...

I think you will be seeing a huge increase in business very soon. tRump plans to take all our safety nets away.

Thank you for all that you do, my friend.

[Aristus]

9. I think you're right, unfortunately.

From 2010 to 2014 we saw a slow but steady decrease in the size of our homeless patient population. Which is a good thing. People were getting off the streets, and getting mainstreamed.

Now I don't know what's going to happen, but any downturn in the economy prompted by the feverish drive to 'privatize' everything will affect the most vulnerable among us.

[CaliforniaPeggy]

10. What wonderful news, my dear Aristus!

I am so glad that you'll be back among the most hopeless of our citizens, helping them win at least some of their battles!

I'm sorry your work IS so necessary, but as long as it is, and as long as you find much joy in providing it, then more power to you!

We love you too!

[rurallib]

11. People like you who restore my faith in humanity

you are what this country is about.

My thanks for what you do and wishes that you once more make that difference in the lives of people who really really need it.

[Aristus]

12. I don't feel worthy of such praise.

After all, I'm not volunteering. I'm getting paid to work there. I can understand that not everyone would want to do this kind of work with this patient population. But I love it...

[hibbing]

13. That's cool

Best of luck with this endeavor, good to pursue your passion. I've enjoyed your posts about your work.

Peace

[Wounded Bear]

14. Good news, friend...

though I fear that your services will be overtaxed the next few years.

[Aristus]

15. I fear so, too...

[In_The_Wind]

16. Seriously wonderful news!

A reason to celebrate.

[Aristus]

17. Yes, indeed!

[Texasgal]

18. I adore that you serve...

From one medical caregiver to the next I applaud you.


<3

[Aristus]

20. Thank you...

[3catwoman3]

19. You have my admiration as well.

In many ways, all delivery of health care is hard work. Patients, or in my case, parents, have lots of needs or lots of expectations. In pediatrics, it is often as if we have 2 sets of patients - the kids, and their worried parents.

I expect your heart must get broken on a regular basis.

My hat if off to you.

[Aristus]

21. Every once in a while, yes.

I'll get a notice from the ED or the shelter that one of my patients has died. It doesn't get any easier as time goes on...

[Aristus]

23. Thank you.

Welcome to DU!