My neighbor started Rapha Ministries which is a free medical clinic for residents of Clark County, Kentucky. I believe that everyone should have the ability to receive medical care when needed so have volunteered from the first day they have opened. I also believe strongly that there are many people that have never been told or believe that God loves them and the ministry that is available at Rapha proves this and has helped many of our clients.
My view of Ralpha: It"s a true asset to our local community providing outreach and meeting the health needs of our rural community. It is through the volunteers and the compassion of those willing to serve that enables those who are less fortunate to survive with dignity through the healthcare and counseling Ralpha provides. Many local citizens are unaware of this healthcare facility and my personal hope is that somehow Ralpha can encompass the community through this and other media resources.
For the past twenty three years I have lived and worked in the Winchester Community. I have known Dr. Scott Baker and his wife, Stacy, since they arrived in our community to establish a family practice for medicine. However, due to Scott's illness he had to cease his practice of medicine and this greatly distressed all of us who were his patients and friends. Although Scott could no longer practice medicine, Scott and Stacy felt a sincere desire to help the citizens of Clark County who could not afford medical treatment. This led to the establishment of the Rapha Clinic. These two young individuals, though facing hardships of their own, were determined to establish a Christian based medical clinic where people could come to obtain medical treatment and Christian counseling. After many years of planning and hard work, the Rapha Clinic opened their doors.
I have been a part of the volunteer staff of the clinic since the first patient was seem. I transcribe the medical notes for the records of the Rapha Clinic. The clinic is run by one paid individual and the remainder of the operation is dependent on volunteers. I have typed the notes of the patients of the Rapha Clinic, and witnessed first hand the loving care given by the doctors and nurses, and the follow-up of medical problems by various other organizations in the community in relation to the Rapha Clinic. I have recorded the patient care, how the doctor's treat the patients and the concerns of the staff. These patients are not just names on a piece of paper, they are people with problems served by volunteers who truly want to help. I have heard their testimonies and seen the results of good patient care.
I am proud to be a part of the Rapha Clinic Staff.