CityView Magazine

She then read a quote from Margaret Meade: "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." Sister Jean knew it was impossible to thank everyone, but mentioned Dr. Tinsley Rucker, Ken Lancaster, CityView Publisher Marshall H. Waren, area churches, Labcorp, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, Womack Army Hospital, the Fayetteville VA Hospital, Carolina Imaging, Valley Regional Imaging, Cathy Ory, medical and dental workers and every volunteer who selfishlessly gave to help others. "You've changed the world, almost unbelievable and at the same time miraculous," Sister Jean said. Later, she told the crowd a miracle is not walking on water, it's when an individual recognizes a need and offers of themselves to change the world. "Do what you can, when you can, because you can," she said. Col. Steve Brewster, who runs the residency program that supplies doctors for the family health clinic, said it's a win-win deal for everyone. "Our doctors find out they love treating people in the clinic because the patients are always extremely grateful," he said. Dr. Mark Stackle, a resident physician agreed. "It's a very rewarding experience," he expressed. "But as you can see there's more behind it than our efforts. This community is to be applauded for their continual support."   Rucker, who has been along every step of the way and sits on the board of directors, said it was significant that the organization hasn't taken "government money," and that the military has played a vital role. "About one-third of the volunteers are active duty or retired military," he said. "Having a military presence has been a huge factor in keeping this going." Lancaster, a real estate agent who has been involved with The CARE Clinic for 16 years, gave kudos to Fayetteville residents. "I'm still amazed at the volunteerism that exists," he said. "That and Sister Jean's work have helped a lot of people, some that wouldn't have gotten health care if not for the clinic." Sometimes helping is simply doing something within your guise. Rachel Violette, who retired after working 23 years in civil service at Fort Bragg, started her clinic service by preparing dinners for board meetings. She also helps with bulk mailing, other assignments, such as coordinating the wine-tasting fundraiser and "anything I'm asked to do." "It's tremendously rewarding and I am so proud to be a part of a group who helps those in tough situations," Violette said. Karen Mantzouris, marketing coordinator for The Care Clinic, said more than 22,000 people have received help for their health and dental needs. Sister Jean told the crowd a miracle is not walking on water, it's when an individual recognizes a need and offers of themselves to change the world. Paying it forward   The torch of light that rescued low-income residents without insurance has become dual beacons of faith and reward for those who followed the lead at Sister Jean's Care Clinic. About five years ago, Steven Smith's wife needed help from the clinic and discovered that giving someone a helping hand is a gift that pays off for everyone. So he decided to pass it on and make it a gift that keeps giving. "I know the people who helped me are blessed and it wasn't until I started working part-time for a group somewhat like this that I fully understood," said Smith, who works as a dental assistant in Indianapolis. "There's no greater feeling than having someone hug you and say thanks because you can see in their face how much it means to them. I do that at a local clinic once a month and would never have done so if I hadn't hit on hard times and been helped by The CARE Clinic. That whole experience brought my insides back to life." While no patient is charged they are asked to make a donation when leaving the visit. To date that pot has risen to about $230,000. "They want a hand up; not a handout," Rucker said. 34 | January/February • 2014 Not everyone at the dinner was a long-time volunteer. Lawyer Carrie Carroll has "only" nine years of service to The CARE Clinic. "If you show up to volunteer there once most people are hooked," said Carroll, who does administrative work for the clinic. "I went there thinking, I'm not a doctor or a nurse but how can I help? And I found out there were many ways. It's very satisfying." At the conclusion of the night Board President Louis Cox and Ory gave a Sister Jean a plaque in appreciation for her work in helping put the clinic on a solid foundation. Put in perspective, it was but a token of a gift for a woman who inspired many people to give of their time and resources. "Miracles unfolded," Sister Jean said. "I thought the clinic would go on after I left, but you always wonder how long and if it will," who was a surgical nurse in before becoming involved in the ministry in 1975. "I am thrilled to return her to see the life and change this group has and continues to make in the lives of others." The work of many people still left Sister Jean searching for words to capture the essence of the clinic's growth and sustainability. "Such miracles," she said. "And you were all a part of it." CV

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