When Luis first stepped into the Samaritan House Free Clinic of Redwood City in late 2023, he was worried about his health. Despite working full-time as an automotive painter and managing his daily expenses, the thought of additional medical bills felt overwhelming. “I was noticing changes in my body, my skin, and my eyes. Someone told me about the clinic, so I came,” Luis recalls. At the clinic, he found a place where he could talk openly with doctors about his health concerns—free of charge and without judgment.
Although Luis initially found it challenging to open up, he quickly realized he was in the right place. With each visit, his trust in the clinic’s staff grew, and he felt truly seen and heard. After a thorough evaluation, Luis was diagnosed with diabetes, a discovery that meant significant changes to his lifestyle. But Luis found he wasn’t alone on this journey. His doctor prescribed essential medication and introduced him to the clinic’s Food Pharmacy, where he met Jill Goldring, Samaritan House’s dedicated nutritionist who helped him reimagine his diet with fresh, nutritious foods.
With guidance from Jill and his medical team, Luis embraced the changes. He learned new ways to manage his diabetes, incorporating healthy eating habits and regular exercise into his daily routine. “Without my doctors and without this clinic, I don’t think I would have made it. The people here are the best,” Luis shares. Now, with his blood sugar levels under control and his health on track, Luis is proud of his progress. He lights up when he shares his health achievements with Jill, knowing the clinic staff are celebrating his wins right alongside him.
For Luis, the clinic is more than just a place to get care: it’s a community that lifts him up. “I tell people about the clinic all the time,” he says. “This clinic is a blessing. You just have to let the people here help you.”
