Grand Island doctors honored for service to community

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by Lauren Conley

Story Created: Nov 1, 2012 at 7:17 PM CDT

Story Updated: Nov 2, 2012 at 11:47 AM CDT

Healthcare is a major issue in the U.S. The Third City Community Clinic in Grand Island knows that first-hand. They see more than 3,000 individuals a year, free of charge.

None of it would be possible without its volunteers.

The clinic is quiet today.

But when the doctors are in, so are the patients. It's the only free health clinic within 70 miles.

"So we get people from a lot of counties and other areas that are just desperate for help," said Susan Aguilar, Executive Director, TCCC

It's a United Way organization. Without any federal funding, they rely solely on donations.

Like this truckload of dental supplies.

"We provide that stop gap, you know, between the patient getting so sick they have to go to an emergency room or they have to be admitted into the hospital," said Aguilar.

Dr. Jacobs has been volunteering at the clinic since they first added dental care in 2007.

"A couple of years ago over at the clinic, you know I think one day we extracted on this child 7 or 8 teeth. Decayed primary teeth, and they didn't cry, they were just happy to have the treatment," said Dr. Timothy Jacobs, TCCC Volunteer Dentist.

In addition to the hours spent at third city community clinic, many of the doctors and dentists see those patients in their own offices.

"There's an untold need of extreme pain and suffering and just to know that that person can function without any pain is very rewarding," said Dr. Jacobs.

This compassion is exactly why he's the clinic's dentist of the year.

"It's not necessary, but I'm honored," said Jacobs.

The doctor of the year? Dr. Sara Graybill. She's been with the clinic since she was a student

"I just think the world of her and our patients do too," said Aguilar.

This honor is about giving back to those who give so much to the community.

"Happy that we're doing what we need to be doing over there at the clinic," said Dr. Jacobs.

Third City Community Clinic is located at 1107 North Broadwell in Grand Island.

Qualifying individuals must be low income and be without insurance.

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