“From a small seed, a mighty trunk may grow.” – Aeschylus

What is the greatest gift a mother can give her child? Western Tidewater Free Clinic’s recent mailing details a patient story about a unique way a mother helped her child. Read the letter below to find out how!

WTFC would not keep our doors open without volunteers, especially our registered nurses. They are the lifeblood of WTFC, especially those as dedicated to our mission as Mary is. She has provided essential patient care to hundreds of patients since she started volunteering at WTFC in 2013. Mary’s commitment to WTFC has resulted in thousands of healthier neighbors who now can give back to their community. Her impact has been phenomenal, helping staff serve an average of 1,434 unduplicated patients each year since she started volunteering. Mary is the essential embodiment of the nurse’s Nightingale Pledge, especially, “With loyalty will I endeavour to aid the physician in his work, and as a ‘missioner of health’ I will dedicate myself to devoted service to human welfare.”

https://www.volunteerhr.org/hrvaa

Drs. Ryan and Emma Dodge have not wasted any time getting involved in their community since relocating from Wisconsin last year. Dr. Emma Dodge is a United States Navy dentist and Dr. Ryan Dodge practices at Howell Dentistry. Newlyweds and new-to-Suffolk, the couple started volunteering at WTFC every Tuesday evening last fall. Since then, they have donated over 200 hours and also recently made a financial donation to the dental program to further support the Clinic’s work. The Drs. Dodge have done an incredible job supporting the complicated needs of WTFC dental patients and improving their dental health for better overall wellbeing through their support of time and treasures.

Pictured above: WTFC Dental Coordinator Monika Patrick and Drs. Ryan and Emma Dodge.