You may see us in the movies
The issue of health care is a growing problem for many Americans. Health care is a luxury in south Texas where 45% of residents are uninsured. Our health programs reach out to address issues of health care and education. The Promatoras de Salud (Community Health workers) educate people in their homes on various topics of health: heart disease, cancer, depression, etc. They also keep up with the health of the those living in Cameron Park through home visits. Sr. Phylis has gained the reputation of someone who can help when the hospital says “Sorry, we’ve done all we can for you. See a specialist -and by the way be sure and take $200.00 + on the day of the appointment.” She has worked closely with doctors, community organizations, and the parish social worker to get help for those in dire need of health care. A mother of a 17 year old girl going blind came to the project asking for help with a retina transplant. Sr. Phylis worked with the eye surgeon, the Lion’s Club, San Felipe Church, and St. Anthony’s School in Harlingen. Enough money was raised to have the transplant in one eye. The young girl is now able to see! We look forward to the day when she can have a second transplant.
Recently, documentary film maker Michael Moore’s staff visited Cameron Park. Mr. Moore is working on a film about health care in the USA. Mr. Moore was interested in visiting us because here people have an option that other US residents don’t: we can go to a third world country for care. YES, American citizens go to Mexico to see physicians. A number of the people we work with were interviewed by his staff and may be in the upcoming movie.

MEDICAL STUDENTS FROM UNIVERSITY OF GALVASTON screening Cameron Park Residents for blood pressure and diabetes. Students in the Frontera de Salud Program make the journey to Brownsville once a month to make home visits with the uninsured and help with screenings. (Photo:Fr. Mike Seifert)