Caring Together
/Bringing Health and Hope to Our Community
“Pastor Stanish, when are you coming to pick me up for the eye exam at the Peace Center?” Mani asked over the phone.
Originally from Bhutan, Mani has been a friend of CFNA for many years. After suffering a stroke a couple of years ago, he has faced ongoing health challenges. When he heard about a free eye clinic at CFNA, he was eager to attend and have his vision checked. What seemed like a simple visit turned into a greater blessing, because during the screening Mani also discovered that he had high blood pressure and needed support in taking his medication regularly.
Like Mani, others also came on Saturday, April 18, to access the free eye clinic. Led by Dr. Cheryl Davidson from the Center for Vision and Learning, 16 individuals received eye exams that day, and many will be provided with free prescription eyeglasses. We are deeply grateful for Dr. Davidson’s generosity and kindness in serving our friends in this way.
In addition to vision care, dental education continues to be an important part of our Health ministry. At a recent session held at the Peace Center, 24 New American after-school students participated in small group classes on dental health. Each student received a toothbrush, toothpaste, dental mirror, and floss…simple but important tools for ongoing care.
We are also thankful for our partnership with the St. Louis University School of Medicine Mobile Clinic Services. They have agreed to see our CFNA immigrant friends during their monthly visits to the St. Pius parking lot on South Grand. These services are offered at no cost and without the need for an appointment. The next scheduled visits are April 28 and May 26, from 2:00–4:00 pm. Both female and male physicians are available on the mobile unit to ensure comfort and accessibility for all.
In our ongoing efforts to strengthen health screenings, CFNA has recently added a new device that checks hemoglobin and hematocrit levels with a simple finger stick- an important tool in identifying possible anemia.
Through these Health and Wellness efforts, CFNA seeks to bless the community by helping individuals care for their overall well-being. Mani shared his gratitude in a simple but powerful way- “Thank you for helping me read my blood pressure medicine and for helping me with my eye exam. Now I understand why I have headaches and dizziness when I read my Nepali Bible…I need to take my medicines on time.” In these simple yet meaningful moments of care, we see how God brings health and hope to our community as we continue caring together.
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
By Gayle Sheahan
CFNA Health & Wellness Coordinator
