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The Gainesville-Hall County community responded very generously to Good News Clinics' request for volunteer for Governor Deal's With A Servant's Heart Day of Service project Jan. 8.
Opening on a Saturday to serve all who requested care was an opportunity for the GNC medical and dental clinics to expand our services. When it was announced that GNC would participate in the Day of Service, the community did not hesitate to support this outreach to those needing medical and dental care; 150 individuals demonstrated their concern for others by offering to help. The Times and WDUN helped spread the word to those most in need in our community.
Our first lady, Sandra Deal, greeted each patient and thanked each volunteer before settling in to her assigned work area to interview patients to obtain medical and dental history information. Each person Mrs. Deal met was appreciative of her concern and willingness to serve them.
On the Day of Service, seven physicians, six nurse practitioners and 10 dentists treated 167 patients. Community volunteers registered and interviewed patients for medical and dental histories. Many business also helped make this day a success. First Baptist Church offered three church buses and drivers to provide a warm place for patients waiting to enter the building.
As patients left Good News Clinics, volunteers saw the gratitude in the patients' eyes and were told: "God bless you, you all saved my life," "thank you for all you do" and "I don't know what I would do without you people." I wish each of you had an opportunity to witness this outpouring of appreciation for those who shared their Saturday to help those most in need in our community.
Good News Clinics board of directors and staff want to thank Gov. Deal for this opportunity to participate in his With A Servant's Heart Day of Service and our community for working with us to provide dental and medical care to 167 individuals.
Cheryl M. Christian
Executive Director, Good News Clinics, Gainesville