Clinic staffed by an army of helpers inspires hope
The Remote Area Medical clinic Nov. 8 and 9 at Butler Intermediate High School met more than the needs of the 368 patients who were served.
Watching the enthusiasm and compassion of the college students and volunteers of all ages who turned out to assist their neighbors in need inspired hope for our future.
“The beauty of it is, it’s not complicated. You show up, and you get services that you need,” Lynn McKinnis, clinic event coordinator, told the Butler Eagle last week.
And it wasn’t complicated for the helpers either. General volunteers parked in the lower high school lot and were transported to the Intermediate High School by van. After checking in and donning a RAM T-shirt, they were assigned a task and dug in.
Those serving food on the lunch line were able to see the quick smiles and dedication of professionals and energy of students taking a break from providing free medical, dental and eye care to those of limited means.
Many shared their stories while loading up on macaroni and cheese and pulled pork. Stopping for a bite to eat were physical therapy students from Slippery Rock University and other schools like Seton Hill. Others traveled the distance from places like New York to help.
Some said they were “runners” bringing patients to the proper places while others in scrubs worked as dental hygienists or medical technicians. Later, volunteers stepped up to take down a tent or to help clean up the cafeteria.
About 50 doctors and 400 volunteers signed up to serve over the weekend, according to McKinnis. They became an army of hope and compassion that provided more than $200,000 in services and energized all who gave their time.
The Butler Eagle thanks those with the talents to organize such a challenging — but needed — undertaking, those who generously shared their professional talents, students who shared their passion and developing skills, and those Butler Countians who just wanted to help.
— DJS
