09/29/2026
I am Yolette Louissaint. I am 66 years old, and I live in Kreyak, a small area in Mizak. I am part of the HeartStrong program at the Felisane Health Center.
Before I became sick, I was very active. I used to run a small business and did whatever work I could to support my family. I also prepared food to sell so I can take care of my eight children.
Things changed when I developed diabetes and high blood pressure. I can no longer do many of the activities I used to do. I do not remember exactly when my diabetes began, but I remember one day when I was preparing food to sell. I accidentally cut my hand with a knife. At first, I thought it was just a small cut. But that same day, my hand became very painful, and I had to go home. The wound became worse and eventually affected my entire hand. I made several trips to the hospital before it finally healed.
After that, I began feeling unwell daily and suspected that I might have diabetes. I told my husband, and he took me to see a doctor. After some tests, the doctors confirmed that my blood sugar was very high. They put me on medication and gave me restrictions on what I could eat.
The medication helped, but emotionally, I struggled. I kept thinking about all the work I used to do and could no longer do. I became dependent on other people, and that was very difficult for me. I could not even rely completely on my husband because he also has high blood pressure. I could no longer do the things I once enjoyed, and even going to church became difficult. That has been one of the hardest parts for me. At one point, I became so sick that I had to spend five days in the hospital. When I arrived, the doctors found that I had several complications. They cared for me until my condition improved, but I knew I still needed ongoing care.
I continued going to the Felisane Health Center for follow-up because it is the only health center in the area where I live. They have always welcomed me and treated me with care. They also enrolled me in the HeartStrong program. Now, I do not have to travel to the clinic for every visit. The nurses come to my home every month to check on me, provide consultations, and bring me my medication. This has made a big difference for me.
What I appreciate most is the way the nurses encourage me when I find myself worrying too much. They always remind me that they are there for me, ready to listen and support me. They make me feel that what they do is more than just a job. I am truly grateful for the human kindness they show me. Even though I can no longer go to church, I continue to pray that God blesses them.
I want to sincerely thank everyone responsible for the HeartStrong program. Thank you for caring for me and for continuing to be there for me.
