March 20, 2014 (San Diego’s East County) --Raul was blind for four years due to diabetes.  He lives alone and couldn’t leave his house, walk to the store or do daily tasks.  Last winter he was very cold because he couldn’t see well enough to make a warm fire. 

With the help of Mountain Health’s Senior Transportation Program, Raul has been able to get to and from his doctor’s appointments including surgery for his eyes, and pick up his eye drops and diabetes medications.  Today, Raul can see 70% better in his right eye after having multiple surgeries.  He recently underwent surgery on his left eye that resulted in seeing shadows and light. 

Raul said, “Your program is God sent.  Without it, none of this would have happened.  It’s just a miracle!”  He has a better outlook on life and states with a huge smile on his face, “My future is looking brighter now that I can see my grandkids.”

March 19, 2013 (Lake Morena) – Community members are pitching in to help Lake Morena resident Julie Atherton, who has been diagnosed with breast cancer and is having surgery on March 28. Atherton works for the Mountain Empire Health at the Campo Community Center.

A spaghetti dinner fundraiser to help defray her medical expenses will be held on April 19 from 6-9 p.m. at the Mountain Empire Community Center, 976 Sheridan Road in Campo.  A silent auction will also be held.