A New Beginning: WPCC & Champions for Health Partnership in Action

At Whole Person Care Clinic (WPCC), we often encounter individuals whose resilience and gratitude inspire us and whose second chances wouldn’t be possible without our invaluable partner organizations.  

One particular patient, Joe, unfortunately became the victim of a cartel robbery and assault, which left him with three broken bones in his hip. Without insurance or financial resources, he was unable to afford surgery, leading to improper healing and chronic pain. Despite his worsening condition, he continued to work at his intense manual labor job to support his family. He relied on over-the-counter pain medications to manage his pain and used a wheelchair for mobility when he wasn’t at work. His quality of life and ability to do everyday tasks were severely impaired.

Our medical director at the time noticed him working one day and asked about his hip. She urged him to visit our Escondido clinic but because of the severity of his condition, our clinic referred him to Project Access San Diego, Champions for Health’s flagship program that provides access to specialty care to restore health to low-income, uninsured individuals in need of specialty medical care.

Project Access facilitated Joe's connection with Dr. Rina Jain of Synergy Orthopedics, a volunteer orthopedic surgeon who generously performed his hip replacement surgery. This life-changing procedure and subsequent physical therapy were provided at no cost to Joe!

Joe, now able to work without pain and live an active life, reflects on his journey with profound gratitude. He shares, "When I pray, I say to God to please bless everyone who has helped me, that they are not in need of anything. There are not enough words to say thank you." His determination and heartfelt thanks highlight the impact of care he received and remind us that collaboration is key when it comes to providing client-centered care.

When he returned to our clinic for follow-up care and to express his gratitude in person, he walked into the clinic looking like a new person — we hardly recognized him! His transformation is a powerful reminder of the difference that compassionate care and community support can make.

WPCC is deeply grateful to Project Access San Diego (Champions for Health) for the invaluable resources they provide, which have greatly benefited Joe and many other patients we've referred. Together as partners, we can give more patients the new beginning they deserve.