Heman Linster

"I'm Lucky to be Alive"

When asked if he’d tell his story and allow his picture to be taken to accompany a story for Caring Hearts Free Clinic of Patrick County, Herman Linster didn’t give a moment’s hesitation.  He said, “Sure, where and what time do you want me to be there?”  The Caring Hearts Free Clinic staff is happy to see Mr. Linster when he walks through the doors.  He is gracious and kind and always offers a smile and friendly conversation.  His smile probably comes from the fact that he says he feels lucky to be alive.  In his lifetime, Mr. Linster has suffered a mini stroke, heart attack and aneurysm.  His chronic health conditions require medical attention and without Caring Hearts Free Clinic, Mr. Linster’s outlook would be rather grim. 

In 2009, Mr. Linster was working in the shipping department at a local lumber facility when he suffered a heart attack.  Within two weeks, he was laid off from his job and two months prior to being laid off, he had been informed his health insurance had been cancelled.  With no income, no insurance, and as an alternative to incurring medical bills he knew he couldn’t pay, Mr. Linster came to Caring Hearts for the follow up care he required after his heart attack.  Since then, he has received the care necessary to keep his chronic health problems under control and has not had any further serious complications.  Through referral from our clinic, Mr. Linster has been able to visit with specialists at Carilion facilities to receive the care necessary for his chronic health conditions. 

Mr. Linster is a Patrick County native and resident and served in the military from 1980-1982.  He has two sons, three grandsons and one granddaughter and is the primary care taker of his mother.  He attends Samaria Holiness Church in Stuart, VA where he enjoys participating in the events hosted there.  Caring Hearts Free Clinic is happy to serve patients like Mr. Linster whose health, without assistance from the clinic, would prevent him from living life to the fullest and being there for his loved ones who need him.

The lab work, tests, and special procedures necessary for patients like Mr. Linster are provided by partners of the clinic at Laboratory Corporation of America, Pioneer Community Hospital, Memorial Hospital of Martinsville and Carilion facilities.  These services are provided either free of charge or at greatly reduced prices.  The value of total donated services in 2012 was over $375,000.  This figure does not include reduced amounts covered by patients through financial arrangements between themselves and the facility.  Even with the generosity of the partners of the clinic, the actual amount paid for special procedures and prescriptions for 2012 from the clinic’s budget was almost $34,000.  For information on how to help the clinic cover these medically necessary tests and procedures, call Susan Heath, Executive Director at 276-694-3410.  Your contribution may reduce your tax liability more than you realize, ask about NAP credits available.