Matt

Matt came to the Pocatello Free Clinic (PFC) in January 2013 hoping to be seen that day by a doctor. Matt did not have medical insurance and was homeless and living in a van. We normally operate off a waiting list but luckily, Dr. Bill Woodhouse was there that day and made time for him. Matt had several complaints including uncontrolled diabetes, diarrhea, severe weight loss, neuropathy in his feet, decreased appetite, and a large basal cell carcinoma on his lower lip.

A week later, Matt saw Dr. Naeem Rahim for a follow up visit. Dr. Rahim took a picture of the basal cell carcinoma on Matt’s lip and sent it to Dr. Earl Stoddard, a local dermatologist, along with a plea for help. Dr. Stoddard responded that he would be willing to remove it free of charge and scheduled Matt for an appointment immediately. Dr. Rahim also contacted Dr. Charles Evans, a gastroenterologist in Pocatello, who was willing to check Matt for colon cancer at no charge. Matt was overwhelmed with gratitude.

Dr. Stoddard successfully removed the cancer on Matt’s lip and said it was the most extensive procedure he has ever done. It is amazing to see the difference in Matt after he had the surgery. He is a much more confident person.

Matt has continued to come to the PFC for follow up, mostly because he needs help paying for prescriptions. Most recently he was referred to Dr. Brandon Wilde, a local podiatrist. Dr. Wilde treated diabetic ulcers on Matt’s feet at no cost.

Matt has qualified for disability due to the medical records from our clinic, and will soon no longer need our assistance.

Matt has benefited more than any other patient from the coordinated efforts of concerned volunteer healthcare providers. His life has literally been changed, and he received services totaling over $30,000 from the Pocatello Free Clinic network.

Matt said this, “If it wasn’t for this place, I wouldn’t have made it. I have so many medical problems. The Pocatello Free Clinic is saving my life every day.”