When you’re fighting cancer in Mariposa you’ll soon find yourself on the road to Fresno, Merced, Modesto, San Francisco, Los Angeles, or even Houston, TX for oncology infusions and doctor appointments. While we feel fortunate to live in a country and a state that provides the availability of services to us, most of us still want to enjoy the benefits of living in a beautiful rural area.

My husband Gene remarked recently that he thought when we turned 65 we’d just get in the car and travel a bit…he didn’t think it would be back and forth to Fresno. We are now three years and two months into this cancer fight and while I appreciate my out of town physicians and facilities I have come to a greater appreciation of our local health care facilities too.

John C. Fremont Hospital has been an excellent support system for us during the past three years. Nurse Carol Davis gave me the extra attention that only “sisters” in the cancer fight know how to give. Maureen Spacke, director of nursing and a friend visited me at home to make sure I was okay. The doctors and ER staff have always been amazing and competent help each time we’ve had to go there. We’ve always felt we could call on anyone there for any special need.

While I was being diagnosed the folks in the x-ray department were very accommodating and willing to provide the prep items needed for my various scans, and studies; saving me several trips to Fresno just to pick up medical supplies. The lab here in Mariposa also did many tests for me locally. The hospital staff and facilities were conveniently available when I required daily IV antibiotics for a period of time.

Fighting cancer and dealing with the results of surgery and the complications of chemo infusions (my new friend with ovarian cancer calls the chemicals “Round-up”) can be all consuming physically and emotionally exhausting even without the hours of travel. Our local hospital has been a comforting resource for us.

I encourage you to tell your out of town doctors about our hospital and to use it as a resource partner for your medical needs. My Fresno physician now knows that Mariposans can receive some IV medications and shots right here rather than driving to Merced for them. When you are ill that means a lot. I know from experience that the entire JCF staff will come to your aid if possible, or will muster the forces necessary to get you the help you need elsewhere. I live near the hospital, and often hear the Medi-Flight helicopter arrive and depart. We all know people who would not be alive today with out that helicopter. This availability alone is a tremendous advantage to our community.

So, I support and encourage John C. Fremont Hospital. Join the Hospital Foundation, volunteer, buy a brick, visit the Ewing Wing, or just go and enjoy the upcoming Black and White Ball and buy something at the auction. Let’s assure that when you need the services of the hospital it will be there for you too.

Kay Mickel