For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many. Mark 10:45
Ector -- It all started with one idea -- one conversation that would eventually fill a need, thanks to prayer.
The concept behind Fannin Health Clinic began two years ago at a Baptist Association Mission Evangelism Team meeting. Glen Tyson with First Baptist Church in Bailey voiced a need for a health ministry. That idea led the group to FBC Durant, which has had success with a health ministry of their own.
After a trip to the Durant facility and a meeting of sharing ideas and obstacles, prayer began to find someone to lead the ministry.
“We will see God work in mighty ways,” said Board Member Dr. Jerry Christopher.
Those prayers led the team to Deloris Clemons, who spent her career as Director of the Sam Rayburn Memorial Veterans Center in Bonham. She reached out to Stephanie Strickland and the ball was rolling on the idea to bring this type of care to the county.
The vision continued to take shape as Dr. Diego Restrepo offered his services.
“His response was overwhelming,” said Clemons.
“I wanted to give back,” said Dr. Restrepo, a landowner in Ector.
He is a firm believer that not only medicine, but faith is a constant in medicine. He believes in educating patients about their health and their medicines.
“We need to treat our body as a temple,” he said, explaining that education is key to keeping our bodies healthy and happy.
The clinic will offer primary care, labs, medications and limited x-rays. Narcotics will not be prescribed or available at any time. There is no cost for men, women, and children who are age 7 and older, those who are uninsured or underinsured, or those who qualify for Medicare but are unable to supplement that coverage will be eligible at the clinic. Services also include medication assistance and education.
Clinic hours will be Thursday's from 6-9 p.m. by appointment. Phones will be answered Monday through Thursday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. And on Friday from 9 a.m. to noon by calling 903-227-7553.
Information is also available online at www.fanninhealthclinic.org
“There are so many different ways to get involved,” explained Board Secretary Sandy Barber.
The clinic welcomes volunteers in a number of capacities. From nurses and clinical staff to clerical workers and janitorial services being needed. Monetary donations are also welcome and needed. The clinic will have utilities along with lab and medication costs to cover. The Bonham Rotary Club has given a generous donation of $1,200 to the clinic for such costs.
Working as Director at Fannin County Children's Center, Barber sees firsthand the need for such a facility.
At an open house held Thursday evening, Clemons expressed gratitude to The Glaser Family Charitable Foundation which has graciously allowed the clinic to be housed in their building located at 109 Main Street in Ector. Clemons also gave appreciation to the many volunteers, Ector Friendship Club, Brett Stone, mayor of Ector and the county commissioners and county judge for their support.
photos by Jessica Taylor