Before his accident, Vicente Camargo worked hard to support himself and his family. But when a serious injury left him unable to walk, everything changed.
“I ended up in a wheelchair and couldn’t even walk,” Vicente said. “Financially, I didn’t have the resources to continue my therapy.”
That’s when Vicente remembered Volunteers in Medicine, a clinic providing care to uninsured patients in need.
“We found out about this clinic a long time ago when it was in the next building over,” he said. “We never really needed services because we worked all the time. But in this situation, well, we had to go to the clinic because of the free services they provide.”
Vicente became a patient about seven months ago and quickly began receiving physical therapy. Starting in a wheelchair, Vicente closely followed the guidance of VIM’s volunteer physical therapist and made great progress.
“I used my crutches, and there I am, step by step,” he explained. “And with God’s blessing, I now walk—all due to the care at this clinic, from all the very kind staff.
After months of therapy and determination, Vicente is back on his feet doing things he loves, like spending time with his family.
“I can even dance a little,” he said with a smile, dancing in his seat as we spoke. “I feel confident with myself, knowing I have the help of this clinic.””
In addition to physical therapy, Vicente also receives primary care and medication – completely free of charge. He credits the clinic with helping him manage his diabetes as well.
“I got into this clinic with my glucose very high, and thanks to the treatment they’ve been giving me, my blood sugar is doing very well,” he said. “The doctor has told me I don’t need insulin. I’m very grateful that I no longer have to poke my fingers.”
For Vicente, the care went beyond medical treatment—it was personal.
“The treatment at this clinic is exceptional from the moment you walk in, with the very friendly receptionist. The therapists… perfect, very good care. Not to mention the doctors who treated me for my arm and my knee.”
Having access to this level of care in his own community meant he didn’t have to travel to San Antonio or San Marcos to search for affordable care. “We’re blessed that this clinic is here in the place where we live,” he shared.
He remains deeply grateful for everyone who makes the clinic’s work possible.
“I want to thank all the donors whose hearts God has touched,” Vicente said. “We feel very grateful to the people who make it possible for this clinic to provide services to so many people.”
A special thanks to volunteer physical therapist Carrie for generously sharing her time and expertise with VIM patients like Vicente.
