News and Media Information

News Releases:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Honoring Janet Turner

Stockbridge, GA -- April 19, 2010 -- Janet Turner is well known for "putting hands to hopes" by actually finding solutions to help those who need, but cannot afford, basic medical and dental care . Her vision began with the Good Shepherd Clinic in Clayton County and grew to include the underserved residents of Henry County in August 2004 when she founded the Hands of Hope Clinic.

In recognition of her vision, her hard work in recruiting volunteer medical and administrative support to provide the medical care, and her phenomenal ability to achieve much-needed funding to facilitate the cause, Janet was honored as the 2010 Henry County Chamber of Commerce "Citizen of the Year," (pictured right) presented by Charles Woodruff, Chairman Henry County Chamber of Commerce. Janet was also recognized by the City of Stockbridge which proclaimed March 8, 2010 as "Janet Turner Day."

In selecting Janet as the Chambers' Citizen of the Year, the Chamber considered: the many years of unselfish service to Henry County, excellence above and beyond in one’s own profession, business, service or enterprise; high moral and ethical character, respect in the community, and outstanding commitment and dedication to improving the quality of life for Henry County citizens.

Janet, a resident of Henry County since 1992, is the wife of the late Clifford W. Turner. She has three children, seven grandchildren, and one great-grandchild. Janet has been a member of First Baptist Church of Morrow for 17 years (home to the Good Shepherd Clinic) and she is an active member of St. Vincent de Paul. As Janet's personal Christian beliefs underscore her desire to help others, they also serve as founding principles for the Clinic.

When asked what made her think her vision could succeed in Henry County, Janet's response was "if Clayton County could do it, Henry County could too!" A great lady with a clear vision and the tenacity to actually make things happen, Janet is truly deserving of the honors that Henry County and the City of Stockbridge have bestowed upon her. As a result of her passion, insights and service, many uninsured and impoverished residents of Henry County have a place to turn to for medical and dental care.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The Hands of Hope Clinic Welcomes New Leaders

Stockbridge, GA -- March 9, 2010 -- In an effort to enhance the support to Henry County citizens who are unable to pay for basic medical and dental care, changes were implemented in the leadership at the Hands of Hope Clinic, effective March 4. Ruth Rucker, RN assumed the role as Interim Executive Director, and Dr. Sarveswar Naidu is the Clinic's newly appointed Medical Director.

Ruth Rucker, who is already well-known by patients and clinic staff alike, became a volunteer nurse with Hands of Hope in 2005, just months after the Clinic began operating in Henry County. Early on, Ruth assumed responsibility for coordinating the services of all the medical volunteers and was enlisted as a member of the Clinic's Board of Directors. When Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans later in 2005, McDonough Presbyterian Church became a staging area for relief efforts in Henry County and Ruth naturally stepped in to coordinate the many volunteer doctors and nurses providing medical services to some 16,000 refugees.

Ruth, a registered nurse, holds a post-graduate degree in healthcare administration from the University of Michigan. Throughout her career she has held positions in hospital management, long-term care administration and healthcare marketing. She has lived in Henry County for 16 years and brings a valuable network and knowledge of Henry County to this position. She is an active member of McDonough Presbyterian Church and, in addition to Hands of Hope's Board, has served on the Boards of the American Heart Association and the YMCA.

Ruth's immediate focus will center on spreading the news about Hands of Hope Clinic throughout the community with the goal of bringing in new volunteers and financial support -- both of which she views as vital for the Clinic to succeed and to thrive.

Dr. Naidu's role as Medical Director centers primarily on recruiting physician volunteers to offer their services at the Clinic, to arrange for specialty referrals, and to oversee the medical operations of the Clinic. Dr. Naidu has been a resident of Henry County for 11 years and has practiced orthopaedics and surgery for over 30 years.

Dr. Naidu is a graduate of Presidency College in Madras, India and he holds a post-graduate degree in Orthopaedics from All India Institute of Medical Sciences in New Delhi, India. He was certified by the American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery in 1976 and has practiced orthopaedics in Georgia since that time. He has published various articles and is especially interested in total joint replacement, arthroplasty and arthroscopy. In addition, he was Assistant Professor of the Medical College of Georgia for three years.

With so many in our community experiencing the impact of the economy, loss of jobs and often loss of insurance coverage, the Hands of Hope Clinic is more important to the population of Henry County than ever before. Ruth Rucker and Dr. Naidu bring new talents, experience and vision to their roles that will facilitate growth of the Clinic, making it possible to serve an even larger segment of the County’s citizens in need of medical and dental care.

Testimonials

"I found myself in recently, when I was admitted to the hospital for the first time in my life. I was discharged with the diagnosis of hypertension and placed on blood pressure medicine. I knew that I would need medical follow-up and monitoring but with a job and no insurance, I wasn’t sure where to go. I had heard about Hands of Hope by word of mouth, so I decided to give them a call.

Not sure what to expect, I walked into a very pleasant and comfortable waiting area. The receptionist was very polite and helpful. The volunteers were very friendly, confidential and professional. The doctors were attentive. They took time to listen to me and respond to what I shared with them. I was treated with dignity and respect. Each exam room was fully equipped with the general doctor office supplies.

Hands of Hope were able to arrange for me to be seen by an ophthalmologist and have important tests to be completed at the hospital. They have assisted me in finding affordable medication. Not only has my in-office experiences been pleasant, but Hands of Hope has provided wonderful follow-up care. My health is improving and I am relieved to know that I have a caring medical clinic that I can rely on for my health needs.

Thank you Hands of Hope Clinic for all you have done for me! God bless you!"
Submitted by: Debbie D.