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By Dawn Burleigh

With the support of Chevron Phillips Chemical, Gift of Life Women’s Breast Health & Cancer Prevention Program was able to provide 30 medically underserved women with free breast health services that include screenings and diagnostic tests on Wednesday at Baptist Hospital – Orange Campus.

One woman, June Denor, traveled all the way from Kountze to participate on Wednesday despite the heavy rains and a being delayed in traffic due to a wreck.

“The program is a Godsend,” Denor said. “I do not have insurance and this helps me keep up with the screenings.”

Denor needs to follow up with annual mammograms due to fibroid cysts.

“It is had to tell if something is old or new with it,” Denor said. “The first time I had to have an ultrasound and such.”

Prior to moving to Southeast Texas, she lived in Wisconsin where there was a similar program.

“I am so happy my friend, a nurse, recommended this program,” Denor said. “I understand the importance of keeping up with the screenings.”

When the pandemic began in March and everything started shutting down, Denor knew she would not be able to get her annual exam as planned in March. As things started shutting down, she wondered when it would be possible to have one.

When she heard of the opening on Wednesday, she knew she had to be on of the ones on the list.

Despite the weather and traffic, she arrived and was assured she would be seen that day.

“When we experience first-hand the gratitude of a GOL client, such as June Denor, it truly solidifies the importance of our program’s outreach, and that irrespective of Covid-19 we must continue our provision of free healthcare for women,” Gift of Life’s Norma Sampson said.

Gift of Life has adapted its deliverance of care to address COVID-19 public health concerns, and throughout the pandemic the organization has remained committed to its mission of saving lives in Southeast Texas.

In 2019, the Gift of Life diagnosed breast cancer in 24 clients and has already diagnosed the disease in four more women this year.

“These are uncertain times, and we must persist as stewards with servant hearts to help others,” affirms Gift of Life Founder and Chair Regina Rogers. “We know that cancer does not cease with Covid-19, and with the financial endorsement of companies such as Chevron Phillips Chemical, Gift of Life can bridge the gap in medical care escalated by the increased rate of unemployment in Southeast Texas.”

Through its annual support of Gift of Life, Chevron Phillips Chemical has provided nearly 350 free clinical breast exams and mammograms for medically underserved women, along with primary care tests.

“Chevron Phillips Chemical has made a lasting and positive impact on the Gift of Life through their philanthropic funding of our program’s health and educational services for vulnerable women,” said Gift of Life Executive Director Norma Sampson. “We are deeply grateful to Chevron Phillips for their devoted commitment of resources and company volunteers to build a healthier, happier community.”

Chevron Phillips Chemical Community Relations Representative Vicki Derese said the company has sponsored the Gift of Life van for several years.

“When we saw we had this opportunity in Orange, we jumped at it,” Derese said.

“We are proud to support Gift of Life’s efforts to advance the health and wellness of Orange citizens,” Derese said. “Many individuals in Southeast Texas have been devastated by the coronavirus crisis, and offering vital medical care to women who lack health insurance furthers Chevron Phillip’s vision of strengthening the region. We are proud to participate as a healthcare advocate to foster good health throughout Orange County.

With the support of Chevron Phillips and other community supporters, Gift of Life has helped extend the lives of nearly 350 Southeast Texans diagnosed with breast or prostate cancer and treated through its lifesaving endeavors.