On Christmas Day, the Good Morning America program interviewed three ministers in a segment called “Bringing Back The True Meaning of Christmas.” One said we could do this by giving of ourselves in time, service and love. I immediately thought about a group of people that lives by that statement.

The Western Tidewater Free Clinic has served me well since the summer of 2007, when I decided to drop my medical insurance because I couldn’t afford it anymore.

I want to thank Margaret Jones for leading me to the facility and April Knight, the former executive director, for helping me to enroll in the program. The executive director there now is Caroline Martin. I also want to thank Regina Jones for helping me to receive medications on time; and Dr. Barney Jamison, whom I saw on a regular basis, and other doctors and nurse practitioners for keeping me in good health.

The volunteer staff consists of retirees and people who put in a full day’s work before reporting to the clinic.

At this clinic I have always been met with pleasant attitudes, along with concern for my health. I have observed others being treated the same. I am now leaving a family of loving people, because I will become eligible for Medicare on Jan. 1.

One thing that can actually make you feel you are getting older is receiving that Medicare card in the mail three months prior to your 65th birthday. I have been reviewing Medicare plans ever since October and have made my choices.

When I look at the advantages of turning 65 it’s not so bad, because I will now be receiving health care that I can afford and medications through Medicare programs, in addition to the Social Security check that I have been receiving every month.

I pray that those who have lost jobs and will lose them in the future due to the economy will survive in spite of their situations, because they will also lose their health benefits. Here’s information to help you as far as health care and medications are concerned.

Without medical insurance, I received help with free medication from AstraZeneca at 1-800-707-8990 and Connection to Care at 1-800-698-0085.

For more information about the Western Tidewater Free Clinic, call 923-1068 or 923-1060. Even though you don’t have to pay anything for health care at this facility, donations are always accepted.

I pray for you at the Western Tidewater Free Clinic to be blessed as others have been blessed through your work. I wish for all of you a very happy and prosperous New Year!