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OUR PATIENTS

I’m not sick or crazy!

Due to family and financial stressors as well as a stigma about mental health, many persons of
Hispanic heritage resist going to the doctor for preventive care and sharing that they struggle
with depression or anxiety. It stems from a cultural gap in understanding healthcare as it
pertains to mentally ill people.

Sara is 53 years old and married with two daughters. She only saw a doctor when something
was really wrong. So, her first experience with Mercy Care was accompanying a friend to the
clinic.

Drawn to the social aspects of the educational classes offered, Sara began to attend regularly
and walking for exercise on her own. But, she still consumed everything bad for her and
ignored her headaches, dizzy spells and sweats. When her health educator made her an
appointment with the doctor, Sara was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes with an A1C level of
10.4! Normal is below 5.6.
Medication was a must, and Sara broke down crying while in her group class. She said
there were times she didn’t want to get out of bed. Because Mercy Care provides medical,
educational, spiritual and mental health care, one-on-one counseling and group support
classes, Sara learned how to manage stress, anxiety and depression. She set aside time to take
care of herself and found a support network in Zumba class. She still attends classes at Mercy
Care, but is off her medication, maintaining normal A1C levels and has lost 14 pounds.

Health Educator Raquel Iwelomen and Behavioral Health Specialist Marly Santana
(not pictured) helped Sara Hernandez through her physical and mental health
problems and onto a healthy, happy life with her family.
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