You Made a Miracle Happen

November 5, 2008 … 
April 15, 2009 … 
September 9, 2009…
These dates will be etched in Ricardo’s memory forever - marking the three surgeries that restored his hearing. At home he keeps the names of the woman who helped him qualify for financial assistance and the surgeon who has become his hero – Salt Lake Otolaryngologist Dr. Bryan Tagge.

Ricardo had worked for years in a ship’s motor room and came to People’s Health with a history of hearing loss that began at age 30 and infections that ultimately led to complete deafness. He had lost jobs and the ability to connect to family and the world at large. He had lost hope because he knew that, even if anything could be done, he would never be able to afford it.

Jennifer Knight, PHC’s medical provider on staff at the time, thought he might qualify for the Health Access Project. When he qualified, he visited an audiologist, who referred him to Dr. Tagge. When the doctor saw the extent of Ricardo’s hearing loss, he planned three surgeries. Within a year, they had accomplished what they set out to do: to give this young, active man back his hearing and help him provide for his family and take part in the world.

You made this happen. Because of you, Clinic staff was here to examine Ricardo. They had done the research to know programs that might help him financially.  They followed up and, when they found his application had been denied because of a misunderstanding during his interview, they helped him clear it up and move forward.

Thank you for the ways you change lives in our community.